Storm Water

Stormwater Pollution Prevention

Stormwater is water from rain, melting snow, or activities such as garden watering that flows across the ground and pavement into storm drains. These storm drains—typically found at street corners and low points—channel the water directly into rivers and lakes, often with little or no treatment.

Most water pollution comes from Nonpoint Source Pollution, which refers to contaminants picked up as water flows over surfaces. Stormwater can carry motor oil, fertilizers, leaves, pet waste, and garbage into local waterways. This pollution harms aquatic life, creates unsafe swimming conditions, and litters our rivers, lakes, and beaches.

As a homeowner, your actions can significantly influence the health of our water systems. Here are simple ways to reduce stormwater pollution:

• Wash your car on the grass or at a commercial car wash. Avoid soaps with phosphorous.
• Always pick up pet waste and dispose of it in the garbage. It contains bacteria that pollute swimming areas.
• Use a broom, not a hose, to clean driveways and sidewalks.
• Avoid or reduce lawn and garden chemicals. Hand-pull weeds. If fertilizing, use phosphorous-free products (look for a "0" as the middle number on the label).
• Compost yard waste and use a mulching mower. The City compost site is open on most weekends from spring through fall.
• Fix vehicle leaks. Drips from oil, antifreeze, and brake fluid pollute stormwater.
• Never dump oil, chemicals, or yard waste into streets or storm drains. Take hazardous materials to the Dakota County Eco-Site at 3365 South Highway 149 in Eagan.
• Dispose of litter properly. Trash on the ground often ends up in storm drains and, eventually, in our lakes and rivers.

Choose a few actions to begin with and help protect South St. Paul's water quality—every effort counts.