Our Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System (MS4) purpose is to protect, maintain, and enhance the environment of the jurisdictions and the public health, safety, and welfare of the citizens by controlling discharges of pollutants to the storm water system, by maintaining and improving the quality of the receiving waters into which the storm water outfalls flow, including without limitation, lakes, rivers, streams, ponds, wetlands, and groundwater, and to enable compliance with the National Pollution Discharge Elimination System permit (NPDES) and applicable regulations for storm water discharges.
This is pollution that flows from pipes or comes from specific points such as an industrial site. This type of pollution is regulated by state laws.
This type of pollution results from land runoff, precipitation, atmospheric deposition, drainage and seepage. This pollutant is caused by rainfall and snowmelt moving over the ground. This activity collects pollutants and chemicals which are deposited into various creeks, lakes and water sources. This type of pollutant is not closely regulated but can be prevented by education.
Problem: Many people do not know where to dispose of chemicals from the home.
Solution: Take all household chemicals to collection sites on specified days. Please see Macon County Environmental Agency website for additional information and the specific collection dates. www.macongreeen.com
Problem: Many people allow their pet's waste to wash down the storm drain.
Solution: Pick up pet's waste when going for walks.
Problem: Many homeowners over fertilize their yard because they enjoy the look of a green yard.
Solution: Do not over fertilize your yard. Always follow the manufacturer's recommendations.
Do not apply when rain is in the forecast. Not only is it a waste of time and money, but the chemicals easily wash away in the runoff after a storm.
Do consider choosing natural fertilizers such as compost or grass clippings.
Problem: Many people are not careful when performing routine maintenance on their vehicles.
Solution: Do not dump motor oil or fluids down a storm drain.
Do not clean up fluid spills with water. Other alternatives for clean-up is kitty litter, sawdust, or wood chips to soak up the spill.
Do take your vehicle to the car wash so the soap and dirt is properly disposed of.
Do properly dispose of all motor oil and fluids properly. Many oil change shops will take used oil at no charge.
maconcleanwater
Macon County Soil and Water Conservation District 3342 North President Howard Brown Blvd. Decatur, IL 62521 US