What are the effects of stormwater pollution?
- Sediment can cloud the water and make it difficult or impossible for aquatic plants to grow. Sediment can also destroy aquatic habitats.
- Excess nutrients can cause algae blooms. When algae die, they sink to the bottom and decompose in a process that removes oxygen from the water. Fish and other aquatic organisms cannot exist in water with low levels of dissolved oxygen.
- Bacteria and other pathogens can wash into swimming areas and create health hazards, often causing beach closures.
- Debris – plastic bags, 6-pack rinks, bottles and cigarette butts – washed into waterways can choke, suffocate or disable aquatic life such as ducks, fish, turtles and birds.
- Household hazardous waste like insecticides, pesticides, paint, solvents, used motor oil, and other auto fluids can poison aquatic life. Land animals and people can become sick and die from eating diseased fish and shellfish or ingesting polluted water.
- Polluted stormwater often affects drinking water sources. This, in turn, can affect human health and increase drinking water treatment costs.

Show All Answers

1. What is stormwater runoff?
2. Why is stormwater runoff a problem?
3. What can I do to prevent stormwater pollution?
4. What are the effects of stormwater pollution?
5. What can I do if I notice inappropriate dumping into or foul odors emanating from storm drains?
6. Why does Middleton have a Stormwater Management Bylaw?
7. What kind of permits are necessary for construction?
8. Are any construction projects exempt from the Stormwater Bylaw?
9. How do I apply for a Stormwater Management Permit?