Negative Effects of Stormwater

Runoff from a construction site can contain sediment and other pollutants that flow into the stormwater system and nearby waterways.

Unmanaged stormwater causes water pollution, erosion, flooding, and unstable streambanks.

As stormwater flows over impervious surfaces it can collect pollutants such as:

• sediment;
• petroleum products from automobiles;
• nutrients (phosphorous and nitrogen) from lawn fertilizer;
• trash;
• soaps and detergents;
• bacteria from pet waste.

Most stormwater is not treated before it empties into streams, rivers, and lakes. The sediment and pollutants in the water are carried downstream and eventually make their way into Lake Champlain. Stormwater runoff, and the pollutants it contains, affects the health of our streams and Lake Champlain, compromising public resources that many of us cherish.

Excessive volumes of stormwater runoff can create significant erosion. Rushing water wears away streambanks, roadsides, and drainage paths, and can deposit sediment in unwanted places. Runoff can also form new tributaries that run through lawns, dirt roads, driveways, and green space. When stormwater does not drain properly it can result in soggy lawns, flooded streets, and wet basements.

Unmanaged stormwater runoff causes:

• increased economic costs to residents;
• negative effects on human health and well-being;
• loss of species diversity in the watershed.