Why is storm water runoff an issue?Storm water runoff can be a significant source of pollution in an urban environment. Rain can’t soak into sidewalks and streets, so it flows to the nearest permeable surface or body of water. Along the way, the water picks up chemicals, toxins, nutrients, bacteria, and excess sediment. When introduced to a waterway, such as the Connecticut River, these substances can do a lot of harm. Excess nutrients can cause algal blooms that kill fish and water plants, bacteria can be spread from cats and dogs to wildlife, and sediment makes water cloudy so aquatic wildlife has a difficult time finding food. Reducing storm water runoff should be a priority when discussing urban pollution.
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Storm water tipsMany storm water tips are aimed at homeowners or landscape architects, but apartment residents can do their part as well:
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For more information on storm water runoff, click here.