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1. What is Stormwater?

Stormwater is any runoff from rain or snow melt that drains into the Town’s drainage systems and ultimately ends up in groundwater, ponds, streams and/or wetland resource areas.

2. Why does stormwater matter?

As rain or snowmelt flows over paved surfaces it carries with it any pollutants such as oils, fertilizer, sand, and trash. Unlike sanitary sewer, stormwater is not treated. The pollutants will eventually enter groundwater, ponds, streams and / or wetland resource areas and can contaminate drinking water supplies, fish and wildlife habitat.

3. How can residents help keep our stormwater clean?

• Do not dump household waste such as paint, cleaning products, motor oils, antifreeze, pet waste or any other hazardous material into catch basins, streams, ponds and wetland areas
• Minimize the use of fertilizers near grated catch basins, streams, ponds and  wetland areas
• Maintain your home’s septic tank and leaching field by regularly  pumping and repairing when necessary
• Whenever possible use Environmentally friendly, biodegradable  products when cleaning outside
• Do not drain chlorinated swimming pools into grated catch basins or onto the street
• If you must wash your car at home, wash it on the lawn to encourage infiltration and use low-phosphate detergents
• Always dispose of pet waste in the trash
• Minimize salt use on walkways and driveways near streams, ponds and / or wetland areas
• Make sure your vehicle or yard equipment is not leaking any oils or fluids
• Always Remember: Only Rain in the Drain

4. How can business owners help keep our stormwater clean?

• Keep your dumpster area clean and your dumpster's lid closed. Never fill it with liquid waste or hose it out
• Clean mats, filters and garbage cans in a mop sink, wash rack or floor drain connected to the sewer through a grease trap. Never wash them in a parking lot, sidewalk or street
• Use dry methods for spill cleanup. Never hose down spills
• Recycle grease and oil. Do not pour it into sinks, floor drains, catch basins or onto a parking lot
• Always keep waste liquid bins covered and contained
• Recycle solvents, oil, and used filters, anti-freeze, batteries, lubricants and metal filings
• Use drip pans underneath vehicles to capture fluids. Use absorbent cleaning agents instead of water to clean work areas

5. Stormwater Best Management Practices (BMPs) for Construction Sites

• Do not store or stockpile materials near a storm drain, catch basins, wetlands or streams
• Schedule excavation, grading, and paving operations for dry weather periods
• Maintain all hay bales and silt fence
• Protect stockpiles by storing under a roof, impermeable tarp, or plastic sheeting
• Prevent erosion by implementing soil stabilization practices such as mulching and temporary seeding
• Educate your employees and subcontractors about stormwater management requirements and their pollution prevention responsibilities