Storm Water Quality in Rancho Murieta
The District is involved in a program designed to clean urban storm water runoff and protect our creeks and the Cosumnes River. Our aim is to support a partnership with other public agencies within Sacramento County to:
- Educate and inform the public about urban runoff pollution
- Encourage public participation in community and clean-up events
- Work with industries and businesses to encourage pollution prevention
- Require construction activities to reduce erosion and pollution
- Require developing projects to include pollution controls that will continue to operate after construction is complete
Before the Rancho Murieta area was developed, most rainfall fell onto natural areas and the water soaked into the ground. Over the last century, we've changed the landscape dramatically by adding roads and buildings and drainage pipes. Storm water that once soaked into the ground now flows quickly into street gutters and drains. It is then carried in pipes to our creeks and the Cosumnes River without treatment.
Everyday activities also add water: activities such as car washing, lawn watering, and cleaning buildings and streets. Along the way, the fast-moving urban runoff picks up pollutants such as pesticides, fertilizers, eroded soil, and oil and grease from cars. These pollutants make their way into our creeks and rivers where they pollute the water and harm the ecosystem of both plants and animals. Eventually, this affects all of us, since we eat the fish and use the rivers for recreation. Some of us in the Sacramento area also drink treated river water.
There are plenty of ways for Rancho Murieta area residents, students, community groups and businesses to get involved in pollution prevention efforts. We need volunteers to help us get the word out. Take the first step by practicing pollution prevention in your own home, then join us in the many activities and events sponsored throughout your community. You are also encouraged to visit Sacramento County Storm Water Quality Program to learn more about how you can improve storm water quality.
Click here for more information regarding storm water control.
Click here for information on the use of pesticides.
To report illegal discharges or construction erosion runoff, call us at 354-3700 or email Paul Siebensohn, Director of Field Operations.