About the Storm Water Management Plan

The City of Rohnert Park is involved in a program designed to protect our creeks and rivers by addressing storm water runoff. As part of the Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) National Pollution Discharge Elimination System (NPDES), Phase II Storm Water Program, the City has developed a 5-year plan to:

• educate and inform the public about urban runoff pollution
• encourage public participation in community and clean-up events
• work with industries and businesses to encourage pollution prevention
• require construction activities to reduce erosion and pollution
• require developing projects to include pollution controls that will continue to operate after construction is complete
• work with our own internal departments to ensure that our maintenance and development projects are designed to reduce pollution.

The City's  NPDES Storm Water Management Plan was approved by the North Coast Regional Water Quality Board (Regional Board) in October 2005. The City submits an  Annual Report on the status of the program and proposed changes. The first of these was submitted to the Regional Board in September 2006.

Why Care About Storm Water?

Before the Rohnert Park area was developed, most rainfall fell onto natural areas and the water soaked into the ground. Over the last century, we've changed the landscape dramatically by adding roads, buildings and drainage pipes. Storm water that once soaked into the ground now flows quickly into street gutters and drains. It is then carried in pipes to our creeks and rivers without treatment.

Everyday activities also add water: activities such as car washing, lawn watering, and cleaning buildings and streets. Along the way, the fast-moving urban runoff picks up pollutants such as pesticides, fertilizers, eroded soil, and oil and grease from cars. These pollutants make their way into our creeks and rivers where they pollute the water and harm the ecosystem of both plants and animals. Eventually, this affects all of us, since we eat the fish and use the rivers for recreation. Our drinking water also comes partially from the Russian River.

How Can You Help?

There are plenty of ways for Rohnert Park area residents, students, community groups and businesses to get involved in pollution prevention efforts. Take the first step by practicing pollution prevention in your own home , then join in the many activities and events sponsored throughout your community.

For More Information

Contact Rohnert Park Engineering & Public Works at (707) 588-2232.