Saratoga County Intermunicipal Stormwater Management Program

Into each life a little rain must fall...Where it goes once it has fallen is everybody’s business.

To better manage our water resources and help navigate the comprehensive requirements of the NYS Department of Environmental Conservation Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System (MS4) Permit Program, Saratoga County via Cornell Cooperative Extension (CCE) has implemented a regional approach through the Saratoga County Inter-Municipal Stormwater Management Program.

The goals of the program are to educate effected communities and Municipal Governments about the new Federal Regulations governing local stormwater management & non-point source pollution while finding the best solutions available.

Remember, stormwater pollution affects us all. As members of the community, the program will look to your community for real solutions to better address stormwater management and protect our water resources.

Participating MS4 Municipalities

Ballston
Ballston Spa
Charlton
Clifton Park
Greenfield
Halfmoon
Malta
Mechanicville
Milton
Moreau
Round Lake
Saratoga County
Saratoga Springs
South Glens Falls
Stillwater
Waterford
Wilton

Go to the Saratoga County Inter-Municipal Stormwater website for all the details

For Residents:

What is stormwater?Every year millions of gallons of Stormwater, in the form of rain and snow melt, flow through our County. As stormwater flows through developed areas, it picks up sediment and other pollutants. These pollutants, including oil, chemicals and trash, are being deposited in our lakes, ponds and rivers. If left unmanaged, stormwater can cause waterbodies to become impaired by debris, sediments and flooding, worsening water conditions for drinking, fishing and natural processes.

How is stormwater managed?
Stormwater runoff is collected and directed through storm drain systems to local streams, rivers, lakes, ponds and wetlands. Stormwater management keeps our streets and highways dry during average rainstorms and protects our homes from floods during extreme storm events and the spring snow melt. In short, stormwater management helps us all to keep our heads above water.

What can I do as a resident?
While stormwater can be managed through storm drain systems, the most effective way to mitigate the impacts of stormwater is by reducing pollution before it is washed away. As a resident, you can help with stormwater management by reducing your domestic footprint, reporting a violation and getting involved in management efforts.

WEB LINKS:

General Information on Stormwater from the NYS DEC

EPA Stormwater Program Page

EPA NPDES for Kids

ONLINE RESOURCES:

What's the Big Deal? PDF- The 'Why Water Quality Fact Sheet' gives background information on common stormwater pollutants.

NEMO Development Impacts on Water PDF- Explains how development has changed the flow of water.

NPS Top 10 presentation PDF