As more people flock to the Valley of the Sun, the issue of stormwater pollution is on the rise. Jessica Pendle, a Water Quality Inspector with the City of Phoenix, is on a mission to educate everyone about this pressing problem.
Many individuals don’t realize that storm sewer and sanitary sewers are separate systems. While wastewater from daily activities like showering or flushing the toilet goes into sanitary sewers for treatment and reuse, stormwater ends up in outfalls across the city when it rains.
Pendle emphasizes the importance of preventing stormwater pollution, which can lead to flooding, poor drainage, and contamination of drinking water. By taking simple steps like picking up after pets and properly disposing of waste, we can contribute to keeping our water systems clean and sustainable.
One of the major pollutants in stormwater is E-Coli, making it crucial to clean up after pets to prevent contamination. In addition to pet waste management, Pendle suggests recycling automobile oil, avoiding pesticide use on windy or rainy days, and emptying pool water into the sanitary sewer cleanout to reduce pollution.
By practicing these at-home tips and staying informed about stormwater pollution, we can all play a part in protecting the environment and ensuring the health of our water systems. Download the 12News app for more local news updates, and check out the 12News YouTube channel for additional content.
