What causes polluted stormwater runoff?

Polluted stormwater runoff generally happens anywhere people use or alter the land. People going about their daily lives are the number one source of stormwater pollutants. Most people are unaware of how they impact water quality. Some common examples include:

  • Excessive pesticide use
  • Letting oil drip out of their vehicles and littering
  • Not picking up pet waste
  • Over fertilizing lawns
  • Using salt or fertilizer to de-ice driveways

Developed areas in general, with their increased runoff, concentrated numbers of people and animals, construction and other activities, are a major contributor to nonpoint source pollution, as are agricultural activities. Other contributors include forest harvesting activities, roadways, and malfunctioning septic systems.

Show All Answers

1. Why all the fuss about stormwater now?
2. What is stormwater runoff?
3. What is polluted runoff?
4. What is nonpoint source pollution?
5. What causes polluted stormwater runoff?
6. Why do we need to manage stormwater and polluted runoff?
7. How is stormwater and runoff "managed"?
8. If it only affects streams and creeks, why should I care?
9. What is a stormwater fee and why do I have one?
10. How does this benefit the average taxpayer?
11. What can I do to make a difference at home and reduce the amount of stormwater pollution?
12. How else can I help reduce stormwater pollution in my area?
13. What is a catch basin or storm drain?
14. Are sewers and storm drains the same things?
15. Do catch basins and storm drains get cleaned out?
16. Why doesn't the City of Saint Peter clean out all of the storm drains before a storm?
17. Why doesn't the City of Saint Peter install filters or screens in front of the catch basins?
18. Why isn't a net/fence/barrier installed at the end of the storm drain channel to catch all of the trash?
19. What kinds of pollutants are found in the storm drain system?
20. What should I do if I see a neighbor throwing trash, used oil or paint into a storm drain?
21. How can I properly dispose of left-over paints, thinners, chemicals, etc.?
22. Is it okay to wash my car on the driveway if I use a biodegradable soap?
23. Yard clippings and leaves are natural, so they don't cause any problems, right?
24. Is there a fine/penalty for illegal dumping?
25. How does pet waste left on the grass affect stormwater?