D id you know that once rain falls onto the hard surfaces of streets, sidewalks, parking lots and rooftops, it picks up any and all pollutants that are in its path until it enters a stormdrain and is sent underground or directly into a stream?

In a non-city environment, rain is mostly absorbed by plants, soil, and trees. When it rains in urban areas, the water flows over hard surfaces and picks up pollution along the way, like oil from cars on the streets. This is called “stormwater runoff.” These pollutants bring extra additives to streams and lakes and cause the rapid growth of algae. Algae looks bad, smells bad, degrades water quality, and can be harmful to your health. 

The City of Roseburg works with residents, businesses, and communities to manage stormwater in the area to protect water quality, public health, and the environment.