In growing cities like Springfield, problems arise from uncontrolled stormwater runoff. Development and inadequate drainage systems increasingly compound problems associated with moderate to significant rainfall. Stormwater runoff from these rainfall events accumulates in many areas of the city, causing nuisance flooding and possible threats to public health and safety.
In addition to drainage issues, the rain that falls on our streets, houses, driveways, parking lots, buildings and other impervious surfaces run off and carry pollutants such as oil, gasoline, pet waste and heavy metals. Stormwater runoff from lawns and other green spaces can carry pesticides, herbicides and fertilizers. Over time, these pollutants accumulate in the waterways causing significant damage to our creeks, streams and lakes.
The EPA now considers pollution from all different sources, including urban stormwater pollution, to be the most important source of contamination in the Nation's waters. Uncontrolled urban runoff also contributes to hydrologic and habitat modification, two important sources of river impairment identified by the EPA.
The City must develop, implement, and enforce a Stormwater Management Program in accordance with 40 C.F.R. §§ 122.30 – 122.37 to protect water quality and to satisfy the appropriate water quality requirements of the Clean Water Act.
View the City's Stormwater Management Plan.