Stormwater Pollution Prevention

1. Check out these sites for more informationhttp://keats.admin.virginia.edu/stormwater/home.html http://cfpub.epa.gov/npdes/home.cfm?program_id=6 http://www.cbf.org/site/PageServer?pagename=resources_pubs_index http://www.dcr.state.va.us/sw/stormwat.htm http://www.deq.state.va.us/wqs/ Stormwater Pollution Prevention Stormwater runoff is precipitation from rain or snowmelt that flows over the ground. As it flows, it can pick up debris, chemicals, dirt, and other pollutants and carry them into the storm sewer system or local streams and rivers. Everything that enters a storm sewer system is eventually discharged into the local streams that flow through our community. UVA has undertaken a concerted effort to reduce stormwater pollution. You can make a difference at UVA and around your home. To report a spill or an illicit discharge, contact Environmental Health and Safety at 982-4911 or Facilities Management at 924-1777 For more information contact: Jeffrey A. Sitler. CPG Environmental Compliance Manager UVA Office of Environmental Health and Safety P.O. Box 400322 Charlottesville, VA 22904-4322 Phone: 982-4901 Email: sitler@virginia.edu

2. Stormwater Quiz: • What two main local creeks receive all of the stormwater runoff from UVA? • Where do these creeks discharge? • What large inland water body receives all stormwater runoff from central Virginia? • Where should you dump wash water? • Water from the storm sewer is treated before it is discharged to streams. True or False. • In undisturbed land areas in Central Virginia, what percentage of rainfall runs off into local streams? 12%, 33%, 46%, or 66% • In an urbanized area such as Charlottesville, would you expect runoff from rainfall to be higher or lower than in an undisturbed area? Why? • What can you do? • Use pesticides and fertilizers sparingly. • Repair vehicle and equipment leaks. • Dispose of household and laboratory hazardous waste, used auto fluids (antifreeze, oil, etc.), and batteries at designated collection or recycling locations (Call OEHS for assistance). • Clean up after your pet. • Use a commercial car wash or wash your car on a lawn or other unpaved surface. • Sweep up landscaping debris and dirt rather than hosing down areas. • Compost or recycle landscaping waste when possible. • Maintain landscaped areas to prevent soil erosion • Clean paint brushes in a sink, not outdoors. • Properly dispose of excess paints through a hazardous waste collection program. (Call OEHS for assistance) • Sweep up and properly dispose of construction debris like concrete and mortar. • Dispose of cleaning water into sanitary sewer drains only. • Volunteer for stream cleanup and storm drain marking programs Remember, our streams and rivers are viable habitats for native fish, insects, and other organisms. Answers: 1) Moores Creek and Meadow Creek, 2) Rivanna River, 3) Chesapeake Bay, 4) Sanitary Sewer, 5) False, 6) 33%, 7) Much higher because of impervious areas such as roads, parking lots and rooftops.