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Stormwater Pollution and the District of Columbia
Stormwater is simply rainwater that, rather than remaining on the land where it falls, flows off of the site. Rainwater becomes stormwater when rain falls on impervious surfaces such as rooftops, driveways, roads, sidewalks and even lawns. Stormwater moves from our yards to our streams it picks up pollutants such as oil and grease from our roadways and driveways, nutrients from fertilizers on our lawns, and bacteria from pet waste and other animal excrement. Once in the stream, the fast-moving surges of water associated with storms cause erosion and destroys habitat for fish and other wildlife.
Thankfully new development and large renovations of properties in the City are now required to install items that reduce stormwater pollution. Unfortunately, most of the District was developed before modern methods for controlling and treating stormwater were developed. If your home was built before the 1980s (and chances are it was!), you probably do not have any stormwater controls installed on your property, but there are steps that you can take to reduce stormwater pollution and beautify your yard!
River Smart Homes Photos
DDOE RiverSmart Homes Program
The District Department of the Environment is currently developing a program to offer incentives to homeowners interested in reducing stormwater pollution from their properties. If you would like more information about the program or would like to add your name to the list of interested citizens, contact: John Wasiutynski at john.wasiutynski@dc.gov.
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