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Storm water is pure rainwater plus anything the rain carries along with it. In urban areas, rain that falls on the roof of your house, or collects on paved areas like driveways, roads and footpaths and is carried away through a system of pipes that are separate from the sewage system. Unlike sewage, storm water is not treated. In some cases it's filtered through traps, usually located at the end of the pipe system, but it still flows directly from streets and gutters into our rivers, the harbor and the ocean. Straight from your street to waterways inhabited by fish, frogs and other aquatic animals and plants.

 Storm water runoff is excess water that can not be absorbed, or that flows off impervious areas such as streets, parking lots, roofs and other hard surfaces. This runoff enters McMechen storm water drainage system, where it's carried to the Ohio River. Along the way, storm water runoff picks up anything in its path ”including oil from cars, fertilizers, litter, pet waste, and sediment” and carries it to the streams and rivers in your backyard. These pollutants can harm plant and animal life. In addition, this runoff can cause erosion, flooding, and property damage if not properly managed. 

 Storm water pollution can be controlled if everyone plays a part in managing the drains in the streets where they live and work. In other words, if you look after your local drains, you can dramatically improve what happens in the harbors, on the beaches and in the rivers. The most effective way to reduce storm water pollution is to stop the pollution from entering the system in the first place. 

• Install a Rain Barrel to Capture and Reuse Runoff 
• Install a Rain Garden to Help Slow Down Runoff 
• Install to use a Permeable Paver
• Take Your Car to a Professional Service Location 
• Properly Maintain Your Vehicle and Clean Up Spills 
• Properly Dispose of Your Pets Waste in Your Yard and Community 
• Practice Proper Yard Care 

      REMEMBER: ONLY RAIN IN THE DRAIN 

• Turn Your Downspouts into the Street 
• Overuse Turf 
• Overuse Asphalt for Yard Paths 
• Ignore Pet Waste 
• Overuse Yard Maintenance Chemicals 
• Wash Your Car in the Driveway 
• Let Vehicle Maintenance Chemicals Spill in Your Driveway 
• Litter 

IF YOU HAVE ANY QUESTIONS OR CONCERNS, 

PLEASE CALL 304-232-3140

SHOULD YOU SUSPECT A SEWAGE LEAK, PLEASE REPORT IT IMMEDIATELY BY CALLING

 (304) 232-3140