Storm Water
What is the City Required to do With Storm Water?
The Federal EPA has designated Parkersburg as a “MS4” (Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System) storm water community. This means that the City must actively manage storm water to the new EPA and DEP standards. Parkersburg is subject to significant penalties for failure to comply with the Federal requirements.
Reporting Requirements
The City is required to submit a storm water management plan to the WV EPA during the first term of the permit cycle. The report outlines the City’s compliance status with permit regulations, an evaluation of management procedures, and analysis of progress goals. The 2011 Storm Water Management Plan can be found by clicking here.
Tips for Preventing Storm Water Pollution
- Compost or mulch yard waste. Don’t leave it in the street or sweep into storm drains or streams.
- Use lawn care products (ie: fertilizer, herbicides, and pesticides) sparingly.
- Plant trees and vegetation. The root system stabilized the ground and thus slowing runoff and erosion.
- Properly dispose of household hazardous waste (ie: engine oils, paints, pesticides, etc), yard waste, pet waste, and kitchen grease.
- Never dump anything into storm drains and sewers (it is illegal).
- Keep drainage ditch and swales free of debris, litter, and obstructions.
- Wash cars at a commercial wash or over areas of gravel or grass.
- Sweep debris from sidewalks and driveways rather than washing debris away.
- Report hazardous spills, illegal dumping, blockages, and unusual odors.
Contacts
For Questions, comments or to report Unlawful Storm Water Discharges, contact the Engineering Department at (304) 424-8568 or email Stormwater@Parkersburg-WV.com
Additional Resources