Why is Stormwater Pollution a Problem?
Stormwater pollution threatens the water quality of our creeks, bay, and ocean, and degrades our groundwater supplies. This pollution can harm us as well as fish, frogs and other aquatic life in our waterways. Public use of our coastal waterways, including water recreation, commercial fishing, aquaculture, and tourism, can also be negatively impacted.
The seemingly inconsequential act of hosing off or leaf-blowing dirt and debris from our driveway into the gutter can cause serious problems in our waterways. The pesticides, dirt, and lawn clippings that we hose or sweep into the gutter can clog fish spawning areas and cover the stream channel floor. The result is less oxygen, less food, less fish.
Residents of Humboldt County can help improve stormwater quality by applying certain methods to every day practices. These methods are called Best Management Practices (BMPs). For more information on how you can help to prevent stormwater pollution, follow this link.
