Charlotte-area residents play an important role in preserving water quality.
Charlotte-area residents play an important role in preserving water quality.
CHARLOTTE, N.C. — As the spring storm season approaches, the Regional Storm Water Partnership of the Carolinas has a message for area residents: you can help preserve water quality in the Charlotte area!
The most important thing local residents can do to maintain water quality is report problems. Storm water services rely on residents to help them catch problems before they get worse. You can report problems by calling 3-1-1 or submit an online request using the appropriate form as seen below.
5 Types of Water Quality Problems You Should Report
Severe Streambank Erosion
Did you know Mecklenburg County has 3,000 miles of streams in the storm drainage system? Other area counties have their own storm drainage systems. Erosion is a normal process that happens gradually over time. The natural purpose of erosion is to create a meandering path for the stream in order to slow it down. But severe streambank erosion can endanger streets, public sidewalks, driveways, homes and commercial buildings. You can report severe streambank erosion by calling 3-1-1 or filling out an online form.
Pollution in Storm Drains, Lakes, or Streams
It’s easy to take storm drains for granted, but they play an important role in moving stormwater directly to local lakes and streams. Contrary to what some may think, the only thing that should be going down storm drains is rainwater. If you see someone dumping pollutants into a storm drain, you should report it by calling 3-1-1 or submitting an online form. Other problems you should report include large amounts of soil entering a storm drain or bodies of water (such as ponds, streams or lakes) that are milky, foamy, or muddy in appearance or that smell unusual.
Natural sources such as iron bacteria, pollen or organic material can look like pollution. To learn more about these natural conditions, click here. When in doubt, report it anyway!
For more information about how to spot and report water pollution, check out this Water Watchers video.
Charlotte and Mecklenburg County residents can also download the Water Watchers app to report water pollution.
Blockage of Storm Drains or Streams
Sediment and debris can sometimes block storm drains, stormwater pipes, streams and ditches. These blockages can threaten homes, driveways, public sidewalks, streets and commercial buildings as well as water quality. You can report blockages by calling 3-1-1 or submitting an online form.
Flooding of Streets and Structures
You should report flooding of streets, driveways, commercial buildings, homes, furnaces, air conditioners or structures such as attached garages. If you feel endangered by a flood, immediately call 9-1-1. If there is no emergency situation, submit an online form or call 3-1-1. Keep in mind that flooding may not mean there is a problem with the storm drainage system. In fact, drainage systems like storm drains, ditches, creeks and pipes are built to contain a specific amount of stormwater.
Erosion or Sinkholes near Storm Drainage Infrastructure
Some signs of a broken pipe include visible holes, active soil settlement and sinkholes. The Regional Storm Water Partnership of the Carolinas encourages residents to call 3-1-1 or submit an online form. Sinkholes and other problems on publicly maintained streets are especially important to report.
To Report Pollution or Other Problems:
- Submit an online request 24/7. Simply click on your city or town on the map to make your report.
Bottom line: If you see or smell something, say something!
