Stormwater is water that flows across the land and into Eureka’s streams, lakes, ditches and canals. When it rains or snows, debris, sediment, bacteria, and nutrients on sidewalks, streets, and parking lots wash into gutters through storm drains and eventually flow untreated into the creeks. Other sources of water include over-irrigation, automobile wash water, or any other activity that results in water flowing into the gutters or streams.
Debris and chemicals such as fertilizers, paint, oil, and other materials that are picked up by stormwater can be harmful to the environment and may end up in Eureka’s lakes and streams such as:
- Flat Creek
- Fox Creek
- Meramec River
- Small ponds and lakes within the City’s boundaries