Stormwater runoff is rainwater and snowmelt that runs off the land and enters streams, rivers, and lakes. Stormwater runoff can contain toxic chemicals, oil and grease, pesticides, metals, and other contaminants that are a major source of water pollution and that can pose a threat to public health and the environment. Rutgers University is doing its part to protect our waters by taking steps to reduce and prevent stormwater pollution.

Rutgers has established standard operating procedures that will help reduce water pollution such as a street-sweeping program, storm drain labeling, and the elimination of vehicle washing on University property. By making small changes in our daily lives, we can help prevent the pollution of stormwater.

The following should never be dumped down storm drains or catch basins: motor oil, pet waste, grass trimmings, leaves, debris, litter, detergents, and hazardous chemicals of any kind. Anything dumped in our stormwater collection systems will be carried into our streams.

References

• Rutgers University Facts about Storm Water Pollution
• NJ Department of Environmental Protection - Stormwater Website

Contact

James Simoni
(848) 445-2550
james.simoni@rutgers.edu