How does rain and stormwater runoff affect Lake Champlain?

When excess water from rain or snow melt flows over driveways, sidewalks, and streets, pollutants are picked up along the way. These pollutants—oil, grease, chemicals, nutrients, metals and bacteria—flow into stormwater systems or directly to the lake, streams, rivers, or wetlands.

Unwanted materials that flow into the stormwater system are discharged untreated into the waterways—the same waterways used for swimming, fishing and drinking water.

What can you do to reduce stormwater runoff?

Awareness about stormwater and its effect on rivers, streams, and lakes is the first step to minimizing pollutants in our waterways.

You can help reduce stormwater runoff by taking these easy steps in your home and around your neighborhood.

Ms. Drop’s Tip of the Month

Remember if you’re using salt to melt ice that salt only works on pavement with a temperature of 15 degrees or higher

Learn more about responsible salt use

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