What’s the problem with stormwater runoff?
Stormwater runoff is rainwater or water from irrigation that does not soak into the ground. Stormwater runoff picks up pollutants as it flows across yards, streets, parking lots and other hard surfaces. This runoff eventually empties directly into the Intracoastal Waterway or Cape Fear River – untreated. Common pollutants in stormwater are:
- Pet waste
- Fertilizer
- Pesticides
- Yard waste (grass clippings, leaves, twigs)
- Litter
- Cigarette butts
- Auto Fluids (motor oil, antifreeze)
- Car washing soaps
- Sediment
- Kitchen grease
- Dumpsters
Stormwater Pollutants Table
Is polluted stormwater runoff a problem for Wilmington’s waterways?
YES! Pollution in runoff adversely affects the water quality and habitat of Wilmington’s waterways. Many of our waterways suffer from high levels of bacteria and nutrients, frequent algal blooms and low dissolved oxygen levels. Most of these water quality problems can be traced back to human activities that occur on land.
What’s the difference between the storm drainage system and the sanitary sewer system?
The storm drainage system moves runoff from streets and property directly to our waterways through storm drains, drainage ditches, pipes, culverts, retention ponds, wetlands, etc. This interconnected system eventually carries runoff (and the pollution in it) into the Cape Fear River or Intracoastal Waterway. Remember, stormwater runoff is not treated!
On the other hand, the sanitary sewer system, or wastewater treatment system, takes all household wastewater (from toilets, showers, sinks, water fountains, etc) and routes it through your plumbing to the City's wastewater treatment plants. Once there, this wastewater is treated and cleaned before being discharged into the Cape Fear River.