Storm sewer systems are designed to efficiently convey stormwater and reduce localized flooding. However, these systems typically discharge directly into nearby lakes, rivers, and drains without treatment. As a result, pollutants carried in stormwater runoff enter natural waterbodies, contributing to water quality degradation, elevated bacteria levels, and damage to aquatic habitats. Common pollutants—including nutrients, sediments, trash, and heavy metals—can lead to algal blooms, increased erosion, and long-term environmental impacts that affect both ecosystems and public health.

Environmental and Physical Impacts

Water Quality Degradation: Stormwater runoff travels over impervious surfaces such as roads, driveways, and lawns, collecting pollutants including oil, fertilizers, heavy metals, and pet waste. These materials are discharged untreated into surface waters.

Erosion and Sedimentation: High-velocity flows from storm sewer outlets can cause streambank erosion, destabilization, and increased sediment deposition, which may impair aquatic habitats.

Algal Blooms: Excess nutrients, particularly phosphorus and nitrogen, can promote algal growth. These blooms reduce oxygen levels in the water and may result in fish kills and degraded water conditions.

Habitat Impacts: Increased stormwater volume and flow can alter or damage riparian and shoreline ecosystems.

Public Health and Infrastructure Concerns

Combined Sewer Overflows (CSOs): In communities with combined sewer systems, significant rainfall events may exceed system capacity, resulting in the discharge of untreated sewage and stormwater into local waterways.

Bacteria and Contamination: Runoff containing human or animal waste can elevate bacteria levels, leading to beach closures and potential impacts to drinking water sources.

Trash and Debris: Litter and roadway debris are commonly transported through storm systems, negatively affecting water quality and wildlife.

Localized Flooding: Blocked or undersized infrastructure may be unable to accommodate high stormwater volumes, resulting in flooding.

Key Concerns

• Untreated Discharge: Stormwater is generally not treated prior to entering local waterways.
• Infrastructure Capacity: Increased development contributes to higher runoff volumes, placing additional strain on existing systems.
• Environmental Impacts: Pollutants such as chlorides from road salt can be harmful to aquatic organisms and vegetation.

The area’s Stormwater Management Plan and Watershed Plan are available through the Bay County Drain Commissioner’s Office.

Protecting Our Watershed

Public education and participation are essential to protecting local water resources. Residents and visitors can help improve water quality by adopting the following practices:

Top 10 Ways to Protect Our Watershed

• Conserve and reuse water when possible
• Conduct soil testing prior to fertilizer application; use low- or no-phosphorus products
• Incorporate native plants and reduce turf grass areas
• Capture and reuse rainwater to minimize runoff
• Dispose of pet waste in the trash or toilet (not septic systems)
• Utilize commercial car wash facilities; if washing at home, wash on grass rather than pavement
• Maintain vehicles to prevent fluid leaks and spills
• Properly dispose of household chemicals, including motor oil, cleaners, and paint
• Inspect and maintain septic systems and sewer connections
• Participate in or support local watershed organizations