Stormwater pollution is everything that flows down the street and enters the storm water drainage system without being cleaned at treatment plants. Anything that flows through the system, besides rainwater, is called stormwater pollution. This runoff is the largest source of pollution in our nation's waterways. It is important that we, as good stewards of the environment, work to keep harmful debris and chemicals out of our waterways!
These common individual behaviors have the potential to generate stormwater pollution:
- littering
- applying lawn-chemicals
- washing cars on impervious driveways
- changing motor-oil on impervious driveways
- disposing leftover paint and household chemicals
Ways to Help Reduce Storm Water Pollution
- Use your refuse, recycling, and green waste containers instead of littering in the street.
- Rinse water-based paint out of brushes and rollers in the sink, not in the street.
- Avoid using pesticides, herbicides, and fertilizers when possible. If you must use yard chemicals, apply only as directed and never right before a storm.
- Wash your car where the water and soap won't flow to the street, or take your car to a car wash.
- Use a broom, instead of a hose, to clean your paved driveway, sidewalks, and streets.
- Pick up after your pets.
- Take hazardous waste, such as automotive fluids, yard chemicals, and paints to a Household Hazardous Waste Collection Facility.
Stormwater Management Program Plan
The City uses requirements set forth in a State of Missouri permit to develop and maintain a Stormwater Management Program Plan (SWMP). This Plan considers individual, household, and public behaviors and activities that can generate pollution within the City.
City of Belton SWMP(PDF, 1004KB)