Stormwater
This page will introduce the concept of stormwater and why managing it is important. Some links to practical solutions can be found further down on this page.
What is stormwater?
The water that falls to the earth as precipitation, or that melts from snow, ice or other type of frozen precipitation is called “stormwater.” Stormwater runoff is stormwater that makes its way over the land and enters streams, rivers, lakes, wetlands, and other surface water bodies.
Along its journey, stormwater runoff flows across different types of land – like forests, lawns, and the built environment that includes buildings, streets, and driveways. Each one of these land uses has a different ability to absorb the runoff. Soil can soak up the water similarly to a sponge; some soils are better sponges than others. In our towns and neighborhoods, there are a lot of impervious surfaces that don’t soak up runoff. Some examples of impervious surfaces can include concrete, asphalt, dirt roads, and even gravel driveways. The compaction present in all of these surfaces cause water to flow quickly, picking up debris and sediment. Where many impervious surfaces are present, larger amounts of stormwater runoff reach streams in a shorter period of time. While stormwater runoff is natural, reducing impervious surfaces and incorporating vegetation into landscaping helps reduce runoff, pollution, and erosion, resulting in healthier lakes and rivers.
Why is managing stormwater important for Lake Champlain?
- Water flowing quickly over impervious surfaces can cause larger volumes of water to flow quickly into streams and rivers. This can lead to the erosion of stream banks and cause downstream flooding
- Stormwater can pick up pollutants and nutrients, like phosphorus or nitrogen. When this nutrient-rich stormwater reaches lakes and ponds it can cause harmful algal blooms (HABs).
So what can we do about it?
Reducing stormwater runoff isn't limited to local municipalities. Homeowners can...
- Look to how nature manages stormwater. Green Infrastructure is a simple yet effective way to combat stormwater runoff.
- Participate in programs like Raise the Blade or Don't P on Your Lawn
- Incorporate Best Management Practices (BMPs)
- Try building a rain garden
- Plan under the mindset that climate change will make rainfall more intense and frequent in the future.
- Educate a friend!
Depending on what you're doing, you may need a permit. Check out the Vermont Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) for more information.
