Storm Water is water that originates during precipitation events. Such as rain, snow, hail, ect.. Storm water that does not soak into the ground becomes surface run off. This water either flows directly into surface waterways (creeks, lakes) or is channeled into storm drains, and ditches which eventually carries the water into water ways that discharge into rivers and lakes where we get our drinking water. This water is entering our streams and lakes untreated; therefore we need to take measures to prevent this water from getting contaminated.
It is the goal of this department to maintain the cities storm water permit in compliance with all local, state and federal laws, and to keep our waters of the state safe and clean for generations to come.
Common contaminates include but are not limited to:
Fertilizers, pesticides, fluids from leaky cars and equipment, sediments from construction and exposed dirt, litter and debris, pet waste
There are things, we can do as individuals, to help keep our water clean and safe for generations to come,
here are a few:
Properly dispose of house hold chemicals
Keep garbage cans covered
Keep grass and yard waste out of gutters
Recycle and compost when you can
Use proper BMP's on construction sites
Repair leaking automobiles and equipment
The City of Lowell is obligated under law to try and keep our water resources uncontaminated, there are rules and regulations that we all must adhere to: