Polluted Runoff

POLLUTED RUNOFF

POLLUTED RUNOFF

Waterkeeper Exclusive: All Stormwater is Local
What is stormwater?

When it rains, water pools up on hard surfaces like driveways, roads and rooftops � it can�t soak into the ground like it would in a forest or meadow.  Instead, rain and snowmelt accumulates and runs off to the nearest storm drain or stream, lake or stretch of coastline.  As more and more water collects, it causes erosion and flooding.  The runoff also carries pollutants from parking lots, streets, lawns and industrial and construction sites to our rivers, lakes, and oceans.  This polluted runoff, or stormwater, is one of the largest and fastest growing threats to U.S. and global water resources.

Stormwater causes beach closures, fishing and swimming advisories from bacteria and other pathogens carried by runoff.  Nutrient-enriched stormwater is the cause for thousands of acres of lifeless streams, rivers and lakes.  Runoff contributes to millions of dollars in flooding and infrastructure damage.When it rains, water pools up on hard surfaces like driveways, roads and rooftops � it can�t soak into the ground like it would in a forest or meadow.  Instead, rain and snowmelt accumulates and runs off to the nearest storm drain or stream, lake or stretch of coastline.  As more and more water collects, it causes erosion and flooding.  The runoff also carries pollutants from parking lots, streets, lawns and industrial and construction sites to our rivers, lakes, and oceans.  This polluted runoff, or stormwater, is one of the largest and fastest growing threats to U.S. and global water resources.

How it Happens:


Construction and Development: Stormwater from active construction sites and new developments carries sediment and other pollutants, muddying our water, permanently damaging habitats and creating flooding problems.When it rains, water pools up on hard surfaces like driveways, roads and rooftops � it can�t soak into the ground like it would in a forest or meadow.  Read more

Industrial Runoff: As stormwater runs off scrap, factory and transportation yards, it carries with it high levels of industrial pollutants. Read more

Urban Runoff: Urban runoff carries oil and grease and trash from roads, parking lots and driveways, heavy metals from infrastructure, and fertilizers, pesticides and pet waste from our lawns, golf courses and parks to our waters.  Read more

Ultimately, You and I play an important role in reducing stormwater through the choices we make everyday.


Waterkeeper Alliance�s Polluted Runoff Campaign harnesses the skills and energies of Waterkeeper organizations and the Alliance�s core legal, scientific, and support staff.  The campaign is a dynamic, multi-pronged effort that focuses on making change at the local level and strengthening U.S. stormwater laws and regulations.

information found on http://www.waterkeeper.org/ht/d/Contents/cids/275,1391/pid/200

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES

Global Humidity

Global Humidity

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Global Precipitation - Project Blue Green

Global Precipitation

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