Press Release

EAST LONGMEADOW STORMWATER MANAGEMENT

For Immediate Release

June 22, 2005

The East Longmeadow Department of Public Works maintains a stormwater management system that includes catchbasins, drainage swales, outlets and basins that extend throughout most Town streets.   The proper maintenance of these systems can help protect the wetlands, ponds and streams that receive their flows.   But the Town needs your help! You can help improve the water quality of the Town’s stormwater management system by incorporating some simple Best Management Practices, including:

• Properly dispose of hazardous waste and recycle used motor oil.   An annual Household Hazardous Waste Collection is offered free for Town residents.   Used motor oil is accepted at the Knowlton Transfer Station.
• Use fertilizers, pesticides, and herbicides sparingly.   Do not apply before a rain storm and follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
• Keep yard waste, trash and dirt off the street and out of the gutters.
• Clean up after your pets.
• Park your car on the grass before you wash it or bring it to a commercial car wash facility.

Background

On May 1, 2003, the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) Phase II regulations became effective.   Under Phase II, storm water discharges from Municipal Separate Storm Sewer Systems (MS4) for urbanized areas require permitting.   The majority of East Longmeadow is identified as an “urbanized area” by EPA.   East Longmeadow developed a Stormwater Management Program addressing the MS4 General Permit requirements that includes the following six minimum control standards:

1. Public education and outreach.
2. Public involvement and participation.
3. Illicit discharge detection and elimination.
4. Construction site stormwater runoff control.
5. Post construction management in new development.
6. Pollution prevention and good housekeeping.

For additional information on the East Longmeadow’s Stormwater Management Program, please contact:

East Longmeadow Department of Public Works

Attn:   Sean P. Kelley, Senior Project Manager

Phone: (413) 525-5400   E-Mail: skelley@eastlongmeadow.org