What is Stormwater?

Stormwater is the rain and snow that runs off rooftops, roads, sidewalks, and other surfaces that are impervious, or cannot absorb water. This stormwater runoff affects water quality when it runs into yards and roads, collecting harmful pollutants such as motor oil, fertilizer, pet waste, and other items. This is known as a nonpoint source of pollution. Non-point source pollution is a contributing factor to many urban stormwater quality issues. Our stormwater is discharged into our creeks, streams, lakes, rivers, etc. The City of Berea is dedicated to keeping our water as clean as possible. Through regulation, inspection, and education, the city can lessen the impact on our watershed.

KPDES Program Phase II – The Reason for Our MS4 Program

The Kentucky Division of Water regulates stormwater through the enforcement of the Kentucky Pollutant Discharge Elimination System. Their goal is to prevent harmful pollutants from being washed or dumped into the municipal separate storm sewer system (MS4). Berea is a Phase II MS4 and is among many other areas in the state that are required to be compliant with stormwater regulations. The City of Berea is covered by a general permit issued by the state. Berea is required to develop and implement a stormwater management program to reduce the contamination of stormwater runoff and prohibit illicit discharges. This program consists of several requirements, referred to as the six minimum control measures and are as follows: 

  1. Public Education and Outreach
  2. Public Participation and Involvement
  3. Illicit Discharge Detection and Elimination
  4. Construction Site Runoff Control
  5. Post-Construction Runoff Control
  6. Pollution Prevention and Good Housekeeping

Stormwater Resources and Regulations

Flooding Resources