Stormwater and Non-point Pollution

Stormwater is a term used to describe water that originates during precipitation events. It may also be used to apply to water that originates with snowmelt or runoff water from overwatering that enters the stormwater system. Stormwater that does not soak into the ground becomes surface runoff, which either flows directly into surface waterways or is channeled into storm sewers, which eventually discharge to surface waters.
Stormwater is of concern for two main issues: one related to the volume and timing of runoff water (flood control and water supplies) and the other related to potential contaminants that the water is carrying, i.e. water pollution.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Stormwater

Nonpoint source pollution is the "pollution for which the specific point of origin is not well-defined." Both urban and rural lifestyles can contribute, and a few examples of nonpoint source pollution are:
• Sediment from land clearing activities
• Fertilizer and pesticide runoff
• Animal waste runoff
• Gasoline and oil which enters water bodies
• Grass clippings placed in creeks or lakes
Blue-green Thumb helps citizens become aware of the power they have to make decisions that help keep our water resources clean.

Works to protect streams, rivers, lakes, wetlands, and groundwater, by educating citizens on actions that can be taken to reduce our impacts on our important water resources. Our area is blessed with beautiful lakes, streams, and wetlands. Protecting these resources ensures us safe drinking water for the future, care of our wildlife, and a place to rest and recreate. People who gain an understanding of what happens beneath the water's surface tend to make a commitment to protecting water resources.
Oklahoma Conservation Commission (OCC)

Stormwater Solutions: Curbing Toxic Runoff - Sightline Daily, Seattle, Washington
Special Series: Stormwater Solutions: Curbing Toxic Runoff
Stormwater--the rainwater that carries toxic pollutants off roofs, pavement, and yards--is a daunting challenge. It poisons waterways and kills salmon, causes erosion, and fills Northwest basements with smelly sludge.
But there's good news; we already know the best, cheapest solutions for curbing stormwater runoff. In this series, Sightline Daily editor Lisa Stiffler investigates the fixes for stormwater--and what they cost.
http://daily.sightline.org/daily_score/archive/2010/01/22/rain-city-gardens
http://daily.sightline.org/daily_score/archive/2010/03/08/stormwater-diy

Runoff
Stormwater runoff can carry nutrients to the lake. Plant a rain garden.

Rain Gardens are one way to deter runoff from stormwater. Limit impervious surfaces from driveways and parking areas.

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