Stormwater

What is Stormwater?

The United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) defines stormwater as water that results from a rainfall event and flows over hardened or impervious surfaces, such as rooftops, driveways, sidewalks, and parking lots.

What is Stormwater Pollution?

In developed areas, these hardened or impervious surfaces prevent water from naturally soaking into the ground. Instead, it flows into a stormwater drainage system,

It is important to know stormwater systems are not connected to sanitary sewer systems. They return untreated water back into the natural environment. As stormwater water travels, it can collect oil, chemicals, bacteria, sediment, pet waste, trash, and other pollutants. Once the water enters the stormwater drainage system, these pollutants or illicit discharges can contaminate Florida’s natural resources, including ponds, lakes, wetlands, oceans, and our drinking water!

Learn What You Can Do to Prevent Stormwater Pollution

Clean Water Is Protected by Law

Did you know our most valuable resource, water, is protected under the Clean Water Act? Learn more: 

U.S. Environmental Protection Agency | US EPA (https://www.epa.gov/)

Summary of the Clean Water Act | US EPA (https://www.epa.gov/laws-regulations/summary-clean-water-act)

Southwest Florida Water Management District (SWFWMD) (www.swfwmd.state.fl.us)