Stormwater
What is stormwater?
Stormwater is a term used to describe water generated from precipitation events that does not get absorbed into the ground, and generally flows into drainage systems, which flow to creeks and rivers. Stormwater can also refer to any runoff that occurs from washing cars, powerwashing impervious surfaces, overwatering of lawns and gardens as well as other sources.
Stormwater carries a huge amount of pollutants into local creeks, sloughs and Humboldt Bay due to the fact that stormwater receives no treatment or filtration before it discharges into these waterways. In general, if a pollutant enters a stormdrain, it will discharge directly into the nearest creek or waterway with no further treatment before it enters Humboldt Bay and then the ocean. Federal, state and local laws require that businesses and citizens put only rain down the drain!
The City of Arcata has adopted Best Management Practices for managing stormwater. The Best Management Practices are found in the Arcata Best Management Practices Manual (please be patient - very, very patient - when downloading this. It is 533 pages!) which provides information on correct practices for all types of businesses and construction projects. Construction and Stormwater Management, provides a brief overview of best practices at construction sites. Below is information from the Alameda Countywide Clean Water Program on practices for restaurants and other food service providers:
For more information regarding the City of Arcata's stormwater management practices, consult the Stormwater Management Program Report.
A toll free regional stormwater hotline can be called at 1 (877) 627-2001 or contact Northcoast Stormwater Coalition to report active pollution or any other stormwater concerns. You may also call Arcata’s Environmental Services Department at (707) 822-8184.
