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Help Prevent Stormwater Pollution The City of Schertz operates a Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System, commonly called an MS4. The MS4 is the City’s system of channels, ditches, inlets, pipes, and other structures that collect stormwater runoff and transport it to streams and creeks such as Santa Clara Creek, Woman Hollering Creek, and Cibolo Creek.
What is Stormwater Runoff ? Stormwater runoff is water from rain that flows from rooftops, over paved streets, sidewalks and parking lots, across bare soil, and through lawns to the MS4. As it flows, runoff often collects pollutants like soil, pet waste, pesticides, fertilizer, oil and grease, litter and others. This water drains directly into nearby creeks, streams, and rivers, without receiving treatment at a sewage plant. Polluted stormwater contaminates streams, rivers, and lakes. It can kill or damage plants, fish, and wildlife while degrading the quality of our water. The City’s MS4 is regulated by a permit issued by the Texas Commission on Environment Quality (TCEQ). The primary pollutant targeted for reduction in our receiving streams is bacteria. Over the coming months, look for articles like this one discussing ways you can help protect the health of our watersheds so that we can preserve and enhance the quality of our waterways.
Pet Waste Pet waste is a major source of pollution in local streams and creeks. Every time it rains the potential exists for thousands of pounds of pet waste to wash down storm drains and into streams, rivers, and lakes. If not disposed of properly, pet waste flows directly into nearby streams and creeks without being treated at wastewater treatment facilities. Pet waste can contain bacteria that threaten the health of animals and people, especially children. Pet waste also contains nutrients that encourage excess weed and algae growth. This water then becomes cloudy and green — unattractive for swimming, boating, and fishing. Bacteria and excess nutrients are a major cause of water quality decline. When pet waste is washed into streams and creeks, the waste decays, using up oxygen and sometimes releasing ammonia. Low oxygen levels and ammonia combined with warm temperatures can kill fish and other aquatic life.
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For more information on stormwater in the City of Schertz, go to “Stormwater Management” on the Engineering Department page of Schertz.com.
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Schertz Magazine November 2019
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Pick up pet waste from your yard. It is not a fertilizer. Carry disposable bags while walking your dog to pick up and dispose of waste properly. If you dispose of pet waste in the trash, wrap it carefully to avoid spillage during collection. Flush your pet’s waste down the toilet (without the bag!), so it can be treated at a sewage treatment plant.