Storm water management protects everyone Published April 5, 2010 By Ronnie Wilson 4th Civil Engineer Squadron SEYMOUR JOHNSON AIR FORCE BASE, N.C. -- As storm-water flows over driveways, lawns and sidewalks, it picks up pollutants such as debris, pet wastes, chemicals and dirt. It can then flow into a storm sewer system or directly to a lake, stream, river, wetland or coastal water system. Water entering a storm sewer system does not get treated before being discharged into water bodies used for swimming, fishing, and sources of drinking water. Improper trash storage and disposal can affect storm water quality. Litter like plastic bottles, fast food wrappers and cups can clog ditches or streams and carry germs and bacteria that pollute water and cause sickness. To solve this problem the answer is simple, put trash in proper cans or recycling bins. Erosion and sediment can also impact water quality. Soil erosion causes sediment to be transported to water bodies. Excess sediment in a water body can cloud the water and make it difficult or impossible for aquatic plants to receive the sunlight they need to grow. It can also smother aquatic habitats, clog fish gills and impede navigation in our waterways, leading to expensive dredging. To report discharges of pollutants into water bodies on base, contact the 4th CES Asset Management Flight hotline at 722-5168. A toll-free hotline is also available to report possible violations to the Sedimentation Pollution Control Act at 1 (866) STOPMUD (786-7683) or e-mail Mell.Nevils@ncmail.net.