MS4 and Stormwater Management

The United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has mandated that certain communities create a Stormwater Management Plan under the Phase II National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) program. The program is intended to improve water quality by reducing the discharge of pollutants from storm water runoff into local storm drains, rivers, ponds, streams and other receiving waterbodies.

Bedford is one of 50 communities affected by this Phase II rule in New Hampshire. In order to comply with the Permit Program, a plan has been developed which comprises the following six elements:

1. Public Education and Outreach

2. Public Participation/Involvement

3. Illicit Discharge Detection and Elimination

4. Construction Site Runoff Control

5. Post Construction Runoff Control

6. Municipal Pollution Prevention/Good Housekeeping

This information is provided to the public regarding Storm Water Management practices to better inform residents of the need to help eliminate non-stormwater discharges and protect water quality. When it rains or as snow melts, the resulting stormwater flows over roads or ground surfaces, picking up debris, chemicals, oils, grease, salt, sediment and other pollutants. These can have harmful effects on drinking water supplies, recreation, fisheries and other wildlife.

What you can do to help prevent stormwater runoff pollution?

· Don’t dump anything into a catch basin or drain pipe.

· Properly dispose of all paints, used motor oil and other hazardous waste

· Sweep up driveways, sidewalks and walkways

· Use fertilizers and pesticides sparingly

· Pick up after your pet and dispose waste in the toilet or trash.

· Check you vehicles for any leaking fluids

· Wash your vehicles at a car wash. If washing at home, use a low-phosphate detergent.

· Have your septic tank pumped and inspected at least once every two years.

REMEMBER: ONLY RAIN DOWN THE DRAIN!