What is Stormwater Pollution?
Did you know that stormwater pollution is one of the leading causes of water quality problems in the State of Maine? Stormwater is rain or snowmelt that does not soak into the ground. As it runs off our lawns, driveways, parking lots, and roads it picks up pollutants such as gas and oil, excess fertilizer and pesticides, as well as pet waste, litter, and even food products that have been spilled on the ground. Stormwater carries these pollutants, untreated, into the local waters such as Milliken Mills and Milliken Pond, Mill and Goosefare Brook, Jones Creek, and eventually to Saco Bay. The Town of Old Orchard Beach is working to prevent stormwater pollution.
Specific Actions by Old Orchard Beach:
- Clean all Town catch basins and sweep all Town streets to remove accumulated sediment.
- Continuously make improvements to the Town’s drainage infrastructure.
- Enacted the Illicit Discharge Ordinance prohibiting the discharge of non-stormwater items into the storm drain system. Basically if it’s not stormwater; don’t dump it down the drain!
- Provide residents with the opportunity to dispose of household hazard waste through regional collection days.
- Enacted a Pooper Scooper Ordinance to limit the amount of pet waste on the beach, streets, and sidewalks.
- Provided “Dogi Pots” at the park and beach entrances to provide a means for pet owners to pick up after their pets.
- Stenciled storm drains with the message “Keep it Clean – Drains to Ocean”.
How can you help?
Stormwater pollution can be prevented if we all pitch in!
- Visit Think Blue Maine for Facts & Info
- Do’s & Dont’s Tips
- Top 10 Things You Can Do
- Stormwater Program Management Plan
To report a problem, please call Public Works at (207) 934-2250.