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Landmark photos provided by Rob Soriano, Inland Valley Daily Bulletin Marketing Department.
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 The Problem: What is storm water pollution?
Storm water pollution is urban runoff water that has picked up pollutants as it flows through the storm drain system–a network of channels, gutters and pipes that collect runoff from city streets, neighborhoods, farms, construction sites and parking lots–and empties directly into local waterways.
Unlike sewage, which goes to treatment plants, urban runoff flows untreated through the storm drain system. Anything thrown, swept or poured into the street, gutter or a catch basin–the curbside openings that lead into the storm drain system–can flow directly into our channels, rivers and eventually to the ocean. This includes pollutants like trash, pet waste, cigarette butts, motor oil, anti-freeze, runoff from pesticides and fertilizers, paint from brushes and containers rinsed in the gutter and toxic household chemicals.
How storm water pollution affects San Bernardino County residents.
Toxic pollutants in contaminated runoff pose a risk to anyone or anything that comes in contact with it, especially children and pets attracted to water running in the gutter. Storm water pollution threatens our drinking water and polluted runoff empties into the Santa Ana River, contaminating our coastal waters. Litter, leaves and other debris can also clog catch basins along streets and at intersections, causing flooding when it rains.
How storm water pollution affects San Bernardino County businesses.
It is illegal for businesses without a permit to discharge wastewater or other materials into the storm drain system. Storm water pollution degrades our neighborhoods, contaminates our communities, and hurts San Bernardino County’s image as a desirable place to work and live.
The Answer: How to prevent storm water pollution.
Everyone in San Bernardino County can help prevent storm water pollution. It is most often caused by everyday behavior that you may not realize contributes to the problem. Simple changes in everyday life are all it takes to help prevent storm water pollution, if we all do our part. Find out how you can help.
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