How to Reduce Stormwater Runoff at the Workplace

Surfaces such as asphalt, concrete and rooftops prevent water from seeping into the ground. Instead they force it to flow along the surface, picking up dirt and contaminants. The water then flows into storm drains under streets, and pipes send the runoff directly into rivers, pollution and all. This runoff degrades water quality and makes it hard for fish to breathe. It also increases the risk of flooding downstream, as more and more water is directed into rivers instead of soaking into the ground or being absorbed by plants. Think of it as the difference between pouring water into a grey funnel versus a green sponge.

Here are some tips to help you reduce runoff at work.

Disconnect your downspouts. Letting nature treat rainwater onsite in a garden or swale is usually better than sending it into the storm drain. Contact your local sewer agency to find out about disconnecting downspouts on commercial buildings. It may be an easy or complicated thing to do, depending on the size and location of the building. In the City of Portland, you can get a discount on your stormwater bill through the Clean River Rewards program for managing your own stormwater.

Sweep off sidewalks, driveways, and parking lots. Don’t hose them down. Hosing wastes water and carries contaminants into rivers.

Install storm drain markers. Stencil the message “Dump No Waste, Drains to Stream” next to your storm drain grates. Your local sewer agency may be able to provide you with the materials you need. Many now use easy to install plastic markers instead of stencils. Marking your storm drains can be a fun volunteer activity for your employees.

Clean out your catch basins. A catch basin is an inlet to a storm drain system that typically includes a grate where stormwater enters the catch basin, and a basin to capture sediment, debris, and associated pollutants. Catch basins on private property (such as a parking lot) must be maintained by the property owner. They should be cleaned periodically to maintain their ability to trap sediment and provide drainage for stormwater. First, remove any leaves and trash that clog the grate. To clean out the catch basin, you can either hire a contractor or do it yourself. Contact your local sewer agency to learn how.

Reduce pavement in your driveway, landscape and parking lots. You can use porous products such as pavers that allow water to seep into the ground around them, or porous asphalt and concrete. Parking lots can be redesigned to capture stormwater in the medians where it is cleaned and absorbed by soil and plants, instead of letting it run into rivers via storm drains. You might even consider installing an eco-roof on your building.

Resources:

City of Portland Industrial Stormwater: 503-823-5320

City of Portland Clean River Rewards: 503-823-1371

Clean Water Services (Washington County area): 503-681-3600

Gresham Storm drain Cleaning Assistance Program: 503-618-2578

City of Vancouver Water Resources Protection: 360-696-8008