The MS4 Program – When stormwater runoff enters municipal owned storm drains and that portion of the municipality has been deemed an “urbanized area” (urbanized areas are determined by Census Data), the municipality is required to develop and implement a stormwater management program and apply for various permits to reduce the contamination of stormwater runoff similar to businesses that release water as a byproduct of their operations. The Municipal Separate Storm Sewer (MS4) Permit requires municipalities to monitor stormwater, educate targeted audiences about water pollution, and enact and enforce stormwater ordinances, along with various other stormwater prevention and protection activities.
The PA Department of Environmental Protection has produced a guide for property owners that explains and illustrates Best Management Practices (BMP) for Stormwater. This guide is primarily intended for landowners who have (or will have) a stormwater BMP on their property, but the guide contains useful information for any landowner. Please click on the link below to read more about BMP.
SW_Booklet_2017-1 Homeowners Guide to Stormwater Best Management Practices
As part of the Township’s continuing efforts to educate the public about water pollution, as required by our MS4 permit, we are pleased to provide the following information for your review:
Every Drop Counts (Save Water by Fixing Leaks) – Free Testing Kit available at the Township Office (while supplies last. Click on the link to view the flyer for the testing kit.
Every Drop Counts
How to Save Water – Everyday activities we all take for granted can use a lot of water; this chart supplied by the American Water Works Association provides alternatives to help you save water, and lower water meter readings will also translate into lower sewer bills. Click on the link to open the flyer.
How To Save Water
Only Rain in the Drain – Storms sewers are for water only
Only Rain in the Drain
Source water protection and the MS4 permit system 2-20-17 done on BCTV with Kent Morey, Lyn Rodino and Chip Bilger. It is a long video but informative.https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sgPmfP-0das
Story Time With Mr. Michael This video is a lovely story read by Michael. For the young and old audiences alike. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G7kEFnUGwtM
Tulpehocken Creek Restoration Project a lovely narrated video that discusses a restoration project along the creek. Those of you within the Tulpehocken Creek watershed should definitely use this video.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jys71IcoyNU&list=PLLEyNDtosoJ7wnMG0gCm-IgzriWWMUrsF&index=5
MS4 PRP