Managing Stormwater: A Leading Cause of Pollution

Stormwater is one of the leading causes of water pollution in Pennsylvania. When rain or snow falls on rooftops, roads and parking lots, the runoff collects oil, pesticides, bacteria and other contaminants and washes them into streams and rivers. Untreated stormwater makes our waterways unsafe for drinking, fishing and recreation, and threatens aquatic life.

Under the federal Clean Water Act, municipalities with municipal separate storm sewer systems (MS4s) must obtain permits and implement programs to reduce pollution from stormwater. Green infrastructure like rain gardens, permeable pavements, and restored wetlands can help capture and filter runoff before it reaches waterways. Citizens can support strong permitting and invest in solutions that keep stormwater on the land where it falls and protect the health of our rivers and communities.