- STORMWATER
- WHAT IS IT?
Stormwater is the rainwater from a storm event and is a natural part of the hydrologic cycle. In a natural environment, most stormwater infiltrates into the ground or makes its way to the atmosphere through evaporation or plant transpiration. A small amount, usually around 10%, flows over the land to waterbodies. In developed environments, impervious surfaces such as streets, parking lots, sidewalks, driveways, and rooftops alter the natural cycle and prevent much of the stormwater from infiltrating or transpiring. Instead, as much as half of stormwater flows over the ground as stormwater runoff and infiltration is significantly reduced.
- WHY IS IT IMPORTANT?
There are several reasons residents of Navassa should be concerned about stormwater.
- Stormwater runoff collects pollutants such as fertilizer, oil and grease, and pet waste and carries them to streams, creeks, rivers, and other bodies of water. Increased development means increased pollution in waterbodies.
- Stormwater runoff is conveyed to waterbodies untreated. It is a common misconception that storm drains and sewers flow to sanitary sewers and that stormwater is treated at the wastewater treatment plant on Royster Road before being discharged. Stormwater systems are separate from wastewater systems and stormwater is not treated before it reaches our waterways.
- In coastal North Carolina, our waterbodies are the primary source of water for public water systems. In Navassa, if you get your water from the Town, Brunswick County, or the North Brunswick Sanitary District, your water comes from the Cape Fear River, where all our stormwater eventually drains.
- Impervious surfaces such as streets, parking lots, sidewalks, driveways, and rooftops prevent stormwater infiltration, also known as groundwater recharge. Groundwater is the primary water source for residents who are not connected to public water systems and a reduction in groundwater can make wells run dry.
- Impervious surfaces increase the the quantity of stormwater runoff and the speed at which it reaches creeks and streams. This can create significant flooding along waterbodies and in roadways and yards during major storms and can cause major damage to property and can even threaten lives.
- Pollutants in stormwater can create fish kills and can cause shellfishing closures. Currently, all waters around Navassa are closed to shellfishing due largely to bacteria washed into the waterways by stormwater runoff.
- Polluted waterways degrade habitat for wildlife, reducing species available for hunting and fishing.
- The shortnose sturgeon is one example of an endangered species in our area that is affected by pollution of our waterways.
- HOW DOES IT AFFECT ME?
Because stormwater is such an important issue, the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the NC Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) have mandated that communities near certain urban areas manage their stormwater. The Town of Navassa is required to participate in the National Pollution Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) Phase II program. Therefore, the Town has adopted a Stormwater Management Plan that includes many public education elements. This website is one attempt to educate you, the residents of Navassa, about stormwater requirements and how you can help improve its quality and quantity.
- STORMWATER REQUIREMENTS.
Currently, Navassa property owners who wish to develop or disturb more than one acre of land are required to get, in addition to Town and County permits, a Stormwater Permit from NC DENR. By March of 2009, the Town will be responsible for adopting a Stormwater Ordinance and administering its own stormwater permitting program.
- TIPS FOR IMPROVING STORMWATER.
There are several easy things that residents of Navassa can do to help improve the quality and quantity of stormwater that reaches our waterways.
- Do not mow stormwater ditches. Vegetation in stormwater ditches slows down the speed that water moves in the system. Slower stormwater means more infiltration can occur and reduces the risk of erosion of ditch banks. Taller and more robust vegetation is more effective at slowing the velocity of stormwater than mowed grasses and vegetation. Also, taller vegetation is usually healthier and less prone to disease and will better resist erosion.
- Keep stormwater drains and ditches clean of debris and trash. Debris like limbs and leaves can clog storm ditches, drains, and culverts, preventing proper stormwater drainage and causing yards and streets to flood. Trash can also clog stormwater drainage systems, and it can pollute stormwater and litter creeks and streams.
- Collect pet waste. Pet and human waste in stormwater are a leading cause of the bacteria that cause shellfishing closures and beach closures. Already, the waters around Navassa are closed to shellfishing. Picking up after pets may help improve water quality to one day permit shellfishing again. Or it may at least prevent water quality from degrading further and closing Navassa's rivers and streams to human contact.
- Reduce or eliminate the use of fertilizer. Lawn and garden fertilizer contains high levels of nitrogen, a primary pollutant in stormwater that causes algal blooms and fish kills. When using fertilizers, make sure to read the instructions and do not use more than is recommended. Another option is to use native plants in landscaping. Native plants are drought resistant and typically require no fertilizer to thrive in our climate.
- Ensure proper septic system function. For residents on septic systems, proper septic function is critical for protecting water quality. Failed septic systems not only pollute stormwater that drains to creeks and streams, they also can pollute groundwater and nearby wells that rely on groundwater for home water use. Perform routine maintenance on your system and immediately notify Town Hall if your septic system fails.
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