Stormwater Coalition
The purpose of the Stormwater Coalition is to provide a forum for local governments to address drainage, erosion, stormwater pollution, and stormwater management regulations on a cooperative, watershed basis.
Stormwater
Managing rain and snowmelt in the Great Black Swamp
Stormwater that falls on city streets is not treated at any water treatment plant. It is directed straight to area creeks and waterways. Stormwater that runs off parking lots, roofs, and other impervious surfaces often carries with it trash, gas and oil, and other pollutants. Managing stormwater keeps rivers clean and ensures that wastewater treatment plants work efficiently.
In our low, flat part of the world, stormwater can cause serious problems. Rainwater can cause street flooding. Some parts of the region's sewer systems combine stormwater and wastewater. In those combined situations, a heavy storm can flood a wastewater treatment plant and result in discharge of untreated waste to area lakes and rivers. To protect homes from flooding, to protect wastewater treatment resources, and to keep pollutants out of the water supply, stormwater management is critical.
Municipal stormwater managers are required to take active steps to reduce water pollution caused by rain and snow. TMACOG helps these permit holders satisfy regulations and protect the environment. Professional training for water professionals and engineers is offered at low or no cost for TMACOG members. Training materials are available for municipal staff and for public education programs.
About Green Infrastructure
Best stormwater practices manage precipitation close to where it falls. When water drains gradually into soil, waste products are filtered naturally and plants take up nutrients that could otherwise contribute to harmful algae blooms in area lakes. Households and businesses can help manage stormwater on their own property. Consider putting green infrastructure to use. Use rain barrels or install a rain garden. Build a swale in a parking lot to temporarily hold water during a rain event.
A rain garden is one type of green infrastructure that could be incorporated at home or in a commercial space. It is a planted low spot that filters dirty stormwater using plants that are naturally adapted to our local environment. Stormwater that is diverted from roofs and sidewalks to a rain garden will soak into the garden, preventing polluted stormwater from entering streams. Rain gardens can also help with problems like basement flooding and can enhance yards by beautifying the landscape. Rain gardens are not designed to hold water for extended periods of time, just long enough to let the water soak into the ground naturally. Although a rain garden is considered low maintenance, continued upkeep is key to maintaining a beautiful rain garden for many years.
Projects
TMACOG has worked with partners to plan for, fund, and install green infrastructure practices in the Toledo area. Here are some projects managed by TMACOG and funded by the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative (GLRI), a federal program that provides funding and support to protect and restore the Great Lakes including our own Western Basin of Lake Erie.
Stormwater Webcasts Schedule
Contact TMACOG to learn about webcasts and training opportunities.
Stormwater Management Standards Manual
The Stormwater Coalition published the Stormwater Management Standards Manual to protect natural resources, manage stormwater with better site design and techniques, and meet the water quality standards of the Clean Water Act.
Good Housekeeping & Pollution Prevention
TMACOG’s Water Quality department staff is completing work on a series of videos and posters to help workers meet regulations and protect stormwater during shop and maintenance operations. Staff working for municipalities with MS4 (Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System) permits are required to have training on good housekeeping. This series of videos satisfies that regulation. They can be used by year-round staff and may also be used to train seasonal employees for specific tasks.
How Can I Help?
Households and businesses have an impact on water quality
People can make choices on their own property that can help keep water clean and save money in treatment costs. Thoughtful landscaping, fertilizing, and maintenance can make a difference.
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208 Regional Water Quality Plan
Area-wide Water Quality Management Plan
A comprehensive document outlining what we as a community will do to meet the goals of the Clean Water Act with regard to sanitary sewers, wastewater treatment, and stormwater management.
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