Submitted by the Sustainability Working Group
What is stormwater?
Stormwater is rain or melted snow that runs off rooftops, paved streets, sidewalks, and parking lots. The rain or melted snow picks up pollution as it runs off these surfaces, empties into drains like the one pictured above, and is deposited into rivers, lakes, and the ocean. This type of stormwater pollution is not treated and is the leading threat to aquatic habitats.
Polluted stormwater runoff can:
• Harm salmon and their habitat.
• Contaminate swimming areas.
• Pollute shellfish beds.
• Contaminate the groundwater we drink.
What can you do to help?
• Maintain your vehicle so it doesn’t leak oil, grease, or coolant.
• Reduce your use of fertilizers and pesticides and don’t use these products before it rains.
• Pick up pet waste.
• Maintain your septic system.
• Wash your car at a car wash instead of on the street or in your driveway.
• Don’t pour anything down storm drains.
Remember: Puget Sound starts here! Only rain down the drain!
Passionate about sustainability? Join our working group.
Puyallup Tribal Members, Tribal employees and Tribal community members interested in joining the Sustainability Working Group can get more information by emailing: Sustainability@puyalluptribe-nsn.gov.
