Stormwater

City of Gardendale Stormwater Management

The City of Gardendale is committed to keeping our environment healthy and vibrant. Many residents are unaware that storm drains carry runoff directly to the nearest stream or lake instead of connecting to a treatment plant. That means any pollutants and litter that is picked up flows directly into our waterways. Because this water receives no treatment, it is especially important to keep all pollutants out.

Only Rain Down the Storm Drain! Help Prevent Water Pollution.

Keeping our waterways clean is important to all of us. How can you help?

• Educate yourself and others about pollution from stormwater runoff and how to prevent it.
• Participate in programs to recycle* and safely dispose of used oil and household hazardous wastes and containers.
• Use good housekeeping practices with lawn care chemicals, oil, gasoline and pet wastes.
• Report spills or illicit discharges to the city and any dumping of inappropriate materials into storm drains (such as oil, antifreeze).
• Rain barrels that keep runoff water from entering the storm drain saves you money if used to water plants in your yard.
• A rain garden that temporarily holds rain water until plants can absorb the runoff is a functional and beautiful addition to low-lying areas in your yard.

Unlike pollution from industry or sewage treatment facilities, which is caused by a discrete number of sources, stormwater pollution is caused by the daily activities of people everywhere. As rainwater and snowmelt run over streets, lawns, farms and construction sites, pollutants such as fertilizers, soil, pesticides, oil, grease and pathogens are picked up and carried by the stormwater. The runoff carrying these pollutants is then discharged without treatment into bodies of water used for swimming, fishing and the provision of drinking water. Pollutants carried by stormwater are the most common cause of water pollution. By practicing sustainable household habits, homeowners can reduce the occurrence of common pollutants in stormwater.