Stormwater Pollution

Commercial

The places where we shop and eat - as well as where we work, learn and worship - all contribute to the pollution of stormwater runoff. All of these developments replace the natural environment with impervious areas like rooftops or parking lots that do not absorb stormwater. Contaminants such as motor fluids from parked cars, as well as trash and litter, collect on impervious surfaces until the next rain event or water hose comes along to wash these pollutants into the stormdrain and into our local waterways rivers and streams.

Dumpsters, Grease, and Chemicals

Open dumpsters, grease and oil from restaurants, and other toxic chemicals that are residuals of the normal business day, can severely harm our local waters as well. Large parking lots are notorious for creating gas, oil, and antifreeze puddles that are washed into storm drains, which lead directly to our waterways.

Erosion and Sedimentation

Another stormwater issue concerns the amount of sediment that is carried into our rivers and streams by stormwater. Erosion and sedimentation occur naturally but are accelerated when fast-moving stormwater washes away soil. The soil, or sediment, can come from all types of properties -- single-family homes, construction projects, commercial areas, and even the stream or river bank itself. We've all seen rivers or streams colored orange from heavy sediment loads during a strong rain. Sediment lowers the levels of oxygen in the water, choking out plant and aquatic life. Stormwater management is key to controlling erosion and sedimentation.

Sound Infrastructure and Clean Water

With this in mind, the Athens-Clarke County stormwater utility is working to ensure that the "Classic City" remains strong, with sound infrastructure and clean water for years to come.