Stormwater Pollution Stormwater pollution is one of the leading causes of water quality problems in the State of Maine. Stormwater is rain or snowmelt that does not soak into the ground. When it runs off our lawns, driveways, parking lots, and roads, it picks up pollutants such as gas and oil, excess fertilizer, pesticides, pet waste, litter, and even food products that have been spilled on the ground. Stormwater carries these untreated pollutants into drainage systems, watercourses, brooks and streams. These eventually discharge into waterbodies such as Highland Lake, the Piscataqua
River, the Presumpscot River, and Casco Bay. The Town of Falmouth is working to prevent stormwater pollution.
Stormwater Management The Town of Falmouth has prepared a 5-year plan to protect stormwater from becoming polluted. Every year, the Maine Department of Environmental Protection requires that the Town report their progress in implementing the plan, and update the plan to better protect stormwater. To view the Stormwater Program Management Plan, click here.
The Town of Falmouth has also enacted an ordinance prohibiting the discharge of non-stormwater items into the storm drain system. The ordinance says if it’s not stormwater, don’t dump it down the drain!
The Town of Falmouth requires stormwater management for new development. The Town also inspects construction sites to ensure compliance with local and state codes.
How can you help? Click here for tips on managing and maintaining your shoreline property. Stormwater Pollution can be prevented if we all pitch in! Here are some helpful resources on how you can help:
|
|
