Keeping our Water Clean
To improve the quality of our water, the Pennsylvania
Department of Environmental Protection (PADEP) requires
all municipalities in populated areas to detect and eliminate
Non-Point Source Pollution (NPSP). NPSP is a combination of
contaminants that enter our streams, lakes, and rivers by way of
rainfall and snowmelt. These pollutants include, but are not limited
to, soap, oil, gasoline, litter, cigarette butts, and sediments.
The main outlet of these pollutants is from storm drain discharge.
Storm drains offer no means of filtration and are easy
targets for illegal dumping. What goes down storm drains ultimately
ends up in lakes, streams, and other bodies of water. To
insure healthy water we must detect and eliminate NPSP.
Participation by the Township and Residents
Lower Gwynedd Township has begun monitoring and testing of
storm sewer outfalls that have flow during dry periods. The
township asks all residents to cooperate with the inspectors, as
some outfalls are located on private properties. Information from
this inspection will be used to remedy polluted areas.
The township asks residents and business owners to do their
part by keeping these guidelines in mind. Remember, dumping of
anything down a storm drain is illegal and violators may be
fined. If you see illegal dumping, please report it to the township.
Some Ways to Prevent Stormwater Runoff Pollution:
- Properly dispose of household hazardous substances, such as
used motor oil, cleaning supplies, and paint. For proper disposal
information, visit www.depweb.state.pa.us and choose "Household
Hazardous Waste" from the "DEP Programs (A-Z)" menu.
- Read and follow directions on pesticides, fertilizers, and herbicides,
and avoid overuse to prevent excess runoff.
- Look for signs of soil, debris, chemicals, or other pollutants
leaving construction sites in stormwater runoff or tracked into
roads by construction vehicles. Report poorly managed construction
sites to the township.
- Install innovative stormwater practices, such as rain barrels or
rain gardens that capture stormwater and reuse it.
- Report any discharge from stormwater outfalls during times of
dry weather - a sign there could be a problem.
- Pick up after pets everywhere, including your backyard, and
dispose of their waste in proper trash containers.
- Store materials that could pollute water indoors and use containers
for outdoor storage that do not rust or leak.
- Wash cars on gravel or grass so that the runoff can be filtered
by the permeable surfaces. Use phosphate-free, biodegradable
detergents whenever possible.
