Stormwater Management
Stormwater is simply water that falls onto the ground from rain or snow events. The water that does not soak into the environment is called stormwater runoff. As stormwater runs off lawns, roofs, driveways, parking lots, and roads, it can flow into our wetlands, streams, lakes, and the ocean and carry pollutants it picks up along the way. These pollutants include oil, grease, gasoline, lead & cadmium from the roads; pesticides, herbicides and animal waste from residential areas & farmlands; and dirt from construction sites to name a few. Added to this list are items improperly disposed of into storm drains or on the ground. All these contaminants end up in waterways, wetlands, ponds, and lakes, fish & animal habitats, recreational swimming, and even drinking water. We all need to do our part and change our habits to lessen pollution. Your efforts along with your neighbors can make a difference.
Stormwater management is a significant issue for the University. In 1998 the EPA conducted a National Water Quality Survey. The results showed approx. 40% of the surveyed U.S. bodies of water do not meet water quality standards. Stormwater runoff is the primary cause of these results. Learn more at IEPA Storm Water.
Mission Statement
To Southern Illinois University Edwardsville, stormwater is a resource; as such, it is the University’s mission to teach, advise, develop, and encourage good management of stormwater in a manner that will promote a healthy environment and thriving communities following The CWA is the principle law governing pollution control and water quality of the Nation's waterways. The object of the CWA is to restore and maintain the chemical, physical and biological integrity of the Nation's waters (33 U.S.C. 1251)
