What do you really know about storm water? How about your neighbor? North Carolina’s Department of Environment and Natural Resources thinks the answers are very important for two reasons. First, polluted storm water runoff is the largest source of water pollution in North Carolina and the nation. Second, the number one source of storm water pollution is people going about their daily business. Most have no idea they are polluting their local water supply. East Carolina University’s Survey center administered the survey in August and September of 2005. Staff placed more than 11,000 calls to get 1,000 completed surveys, a large enough number that the findings have a 95 percent confidence level. The results were a mix of the expected and the unexpected.•Most of us rate water quality as “good” (42.4%), followed by “fair.” (39.4%).
Most of us rate water quality as “good” (42.4%), followed by “fair.” (39.4%).•Most of us do not know storm water receives no treatment before storm drains carry it directly to the nearest stream or river. (Only 37.6% got this one right).
Most of us do not know storm water receives no treatment before storm drains carry it directly to the nearest stream or river. (Only 37.6% got this one right).•Most of us (52.2%) do not test our soil to determine its needs before applying fertilizer.
Most of us (52.2%) do not test our soil to determine its needs before applying fertilizer.•Some of us (5.8%) apply fertilizer monthly. (This is way too much).
Some of us (5.8%) apply fertilizer monthly. (This is way too much).•Some 40% of us wash our own vehicles, but more than one-third wash in the driveway.
Some 40% of us wash our own vehicles, but more than one-third wash in the driveway.•Only one-fifth change their own oil, but 12 percent of them throw used oil in the grass.
Only one-fifth change their own oil, but 12 percent of them throw used oil in the grass.•Most pet walkers do not “scoop the poop” but women scoop more than men.
Most pet walkers do not “scoop the poop” but women scoop more than men.Survey results are fun to read and talk about, but DENR’s purpose is to produce and deliver educational materials to the groups that need them most. The survey data identifies groups and other demographic data such as income, age and education so messages can be tailored to different groups needs. Protecting water quality through education is not just desirable; many N.C. communities including Biltmore Forest are mandated to do so by the Federal Government. The U.S. EPA requires communities with certain sizes, growth rates and locations to receive storm water permits. In addition to education, the permits require other activities like tracking illicit discharges (straight piping) and controlling runoff from construction sites. This survey’s focus was outreach and education. It won’t take long to learn if the messages get through. The survey will be conducted again 2006 and 2007. If scores improve, we’ll have a better educated state. We may even have better water quality, but that’s not guaranteed. Knowing what’s right and actually doing it are two different things. Before state residents make changes, they need good reasons. Since most don’t know their actions can harm local water, that’s a good place to start.
A Few Facts about Stormwater
Storm Drains
Stormwater, the runoff from melting snow or rain, picks up dirt, chemicals, oil and pet waste as it “runs off” hard surfaces like roads, sidewalks and roofs. Stormwater is carried by gutters to storm drains that lead directly to the nearest creek, stream or lake.
Water Pollution
The single largest water pollution source in North Carolina and the nation is stormwater. The number one pollutant, by volume, is sediment. Erosion from agriculture, development and eroding streambeds are primary sources.
Soil Test
Soil test are available for free from the North Carolina Department of Agriculture & Consumer Services. Fertilizers can deliver different chemicals at different rates, so having a soil test lets you know how much of a given chemical your yard needs.
Fertilizer
Grass can only take up so much fertilizer, so applying more waste money and poses a water pollution threat. When fertilizer reaches a stream, it encourages algae to grow. When algae blooms die off, they use up so much of the water’s oxygen, it can cause a fish kill.
Yard Waste
Grass clippings and leaves, if left in the gutter, can be swept into storm drains that carry the waste to local creeks, streams, and rivers. Yard waste acts like fertilizer in the water and can stimulate algae growth.
Washing Vehicles
Do-it-yourself car washers should wash above grass or gravel, otherwise all the soap, brake dust, oil and road dirt flow off the driveway, into the gutter and down to the closest storm drain.
Home Oil Changers
Disposing of used waste oil properly is vital because one quart of waste oil can contaminate one million gallons of clean water. Many garages , auto parts stores and even quick-change outfits will take your used oil and send it for recycling. Never throw used oil onto grass because the petroleum products can reach and contaminate groundwater.
Why Scoop The Poop
Pet waste is like any other waste because it is loaded with microbes that can harm human health. Pet waste can also act like a fertilizer and stimulate algae growth. When we leave pet waste on sidewalks and streets, rain picks it up and carries it to the nearest storm drain where it contaminates the water.
