Stormwater Management Mission Statement
The Wilmington Department of Public Works is currently working to implement the Town's Stormwater Management Plan as required by the Massachusetts Executive Office of Environmental Affairs and US Environmental Protection Agency. The primary components of the plan include public education & outreach, public involvement & participation, illicit discharge detection & elimination, construction site stormwater runoff control, post-construction stormwater management, and pollution prevention & good housekeeping.
Stormwater Management Permitting
The Town of Wilmington currently regulates stormwater through its Comprehensive Stormwater Management Bylaw. Rules and Regulations have been approved by the Wilmington Planning Board which govern stormwater policy on certain types of developments, requiring a Stormwater Management Permit or Simple Stormwater Management Permit as part of the overall land development permitting process. Please click the link above labeled "Stormwater Bylaw, Regulations, and Applications" for online documents related to stormwater permitting.
Nonpoint Source Pollution & Stormwater Runoff
Nonpoint source (NPS) pollution is defined as pollution that comes from many diffuse sources. NPS pollution is caused by rainfall or snowmelt moving over and through the ground. As the runoff moves, it picks up and carries away natural and man-made pollutants, finally depositing them into lakes, rivers, wetlands, coastal waters, and even our underground sources of drinking water. If we all do our individual parts in reducing nonpoint source pollution, together we can greatly improve the conditions of our lakes, rivers, and wetlands.
10 Ways to Prevent Nonpoint Source Pollution:
1. Use fertilizers sparingly.
2. Regularly inspect and pump your septic system.
3. NEVER dump anything into a storm drain.
4. Replant disturbed soil as soon as possible.
5. Regularly maintain your automobile to prevent fluid leaks.
6. Dispose of hazardous waste properly at Wilmington’s Hazardous Waste Day.
7. Direct roof drains away from bare surfaces and bare soil.
8. If you must wash your car at home, wash it on the lawn to encourage infiltration and use low phosphate detergents in small amounts.
9. Pick up after your pets!
10. Clean up spills of vehicle fluids and household chemicals promptly and
properly.
Stormwater Tips and Good Housekeeping Practices
Car Care & Maintenance
o Recycle motor oil and antifreeze
o Use commercial Car Washes that recycle wash water
o Use low-phosphate detergents when washing your car at home
o Check for fluid leaks regularly
Lawn Care & Maintenance
o Mulch leaves and grass clippings
o Reduce the size of your lawn by utilizing decorative rock gardens & natural vegetation
o Use organic lawn care products
o Do not overuse fertilizer
o Re-plant bare areas to discourage soil erosion
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