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1. Isn't stormwater runoff natural and harmless because it only consists of rainwater?

The rain is not to blame for stormwater runoff problems. In fact, rainfall is completely natural. The problem is the pollution that contaminates runoff during its journey over roads, parking lots and other impervious surfaces. Stormwater can also pick up fertilizers and chemicals from lawns and landscaped areas.

2. Are sewers and storm drains the same thing?

No. They are two completely separate drainage systems. Wastewater from your sinks, showers and toilets will be extensively treated and filtered before being discharged into the Kansas River. On the other hand, the water entering storm drains flows untreated, directly into our local rivers. See a diagram of the difference.

3. What solutions exist to solve stormwater problems?

Solutions to stormwater runoff include stormwater ponds, regional stormwater facilities and community education programs. Stormwater problems can be reduced or prevented through responsible and efficient practices of homeowners, businesses, the public works department and pollution prevention programs.

4. What kinds of pollutants are found in the storm drain system?

Oil, paint products, pesticides, fertilizers, antifreeze, human and animal waste, and Styrofoam cups are only a few of the many pollutants that can be found in the storm drain system.

5. What is NPDES?

NPDES stands for National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System, which is the compliance system for the Clean Water Act. NPDES requires that all stormwater discharges to waters of the United States meet minimum federal water quality requirements. More information about NPDES can be found online.

6. Why doesn't the city build a stormwater treatment facility?

Because of the variation in rainfall amounts and runoff volume, a stormwater treatment plant is economically infeasible. Such a facility would be extremely costly to build and maintain. Even if a stormwater treatment plant existed in Manhattan, the large amount of stormwater runoff from rainstorms would easily overtax the system.

7. What is the City of Manhattan doing about illegal dumping into storm drains?

We are currently in the process of drawing up an ordinance that addresses dumping and littering into storm drains. Enforcement of this ordinance is part of our Phase II permit requirements. Code enforcement officers will be authorized to cite any person caught illegally dumping any material other than rainwater into or around storm drains.

8. I have seen markers on storm drains. What do they mean?

The markers found on Manhattan's storm drains say, "No Dumping, Leads to River," and are in place to remind each of us that anything we dump into storm drains or leave on the ground will find its way into our local streams, rivers and lakes. The City of Manhattan's Storm Drain Marking Program is based on volunteers. If your organization would like to help, contact us at stormwater@cityofmhk.com or 785-587-2441.

9. Is it OK to wash my car in my driveway?

The best way you can wash your car is to use a full or self-service car wash. These commercial car washes are designed to recycle used water and filter out many of the chemicals and other pollutants washed off of your vehicle. The alternative to a commercial car wash is to park your vehicle on the lawn or gravel, allowing soil to naturally filter out some of the contaminants. Use biodegradable soaps and as little water as possible.

10. Is it OK to wash or sweep leaves, grass, soil and/or other natural elements down the storm drain?

Grass and leaves repeatedly swept or washed into storm drains can become a breeding ground for rodents and insects and can clog drains, causing localized flooding. Plant matter washed into bodies of water deprives aquatic life of oxygen as well. Soil is easily washed into storm drains when it rains and is a serious problems at many construction areas. This sediment clouds water and destroys aquatic habitats.

11. Is it OK to wash out my paintbrushes or similar items in the gutter?

No. Paint can be toxic to fish by interfering with breathing and plant growth. Nearly all chemicals have some negative side effects on the environment. Please dispose of all waste properly.

12. Is it OK to leave pet waste on the ground?

Pet waste carries bacteria that harm humans and other animals. When left on the ground, it can be picked up by rain as it travels into storm drains. Contrary to what most people believe, pet waste is not natural for our environment, especially when it is washed into bodies of water.

13. Why should I care about what goes down the storm drain?

Everyone should be concerned about stormwater quality because what we put down the storm drain ends up in places like Wildcat Creek, Tuttle Lake or the Kansas or Big Blue River. Everything we do affects people living downstream, but don't let that fool you into believing you won't be affected. Remember, we all live downstream from someone.

14. What can I do to make a difference?

You can make a huge difference in stormwater quality simply by changing a few practices at home.

1. Wash your car at a commercial car wash or on the lawn.


2. Mulch grass clippings into your lawn or begin composting your organic waste.


3. Sweep dirt onto the lawn and pick up any litter you find.


4. Pick up your pet waste and flush it in the toilet or dispose of it in the trash.


5. When fertilizing, follow instructions, sweep up any excess and avoid fertilizing before it rains.


6. Take leftover household chemicals such as oil, paint, antifreeze, cleaners, pesticides and herbicides to the Household Hazardous Waste Facility at 6245 Tuttle Creek Blvd.

15. What happens if I see someone dumping trash, oil, etc., into a storm drain?

A storm drain's sole purpose is to collect stormwater runoff and transport it to our local bodies of water. Dumping anything into a storm drain is illegal and is a federal violation of the Clean Water Act of 1972. To report illegal dumping, call us at 785-587-2441 or report the problem online with our Report It! feature.