When it rains, pollution flows directly into Biscayne Bay, carrying oil, chemicals, and trash from our neighborhoods.
What is Stormwater?
Stormwater is water that flows over hard surfaces like roads, sidewalks, and rooftops.
Instead of soaking into the ground, it runs off, picking up pollutants along the way and carrying them into storm drains and nearby waterways.
How Stormwater Pollutes Our Water
As rain moves across streets and urban areas, it collects:
- Oil and chemicals from roads
- Fertilizers and pesticides from lawns
- Trash and debris
- Sediment and other pollutants
This polluted runoff flows into storm drains, canals, and Biscayne Bay without treatment.
Why It Matters
Stormwater runoff is one of the leading sources of water pollution in South Florida.
It degrades water quality, harms wildlife, and increases health risks for people who swim, fish, or spend time in our waterways.
Clean water starts on land.
What You Can Do
Reduce Chemical Use
Limit fertilizers and pesticides around your home.
Capture Rainwater
Install rain barrels or rain gardens to slow and reuse runoff.
Plant Native Vegetation
Native plants require less water and help filter pollutants naturally.
Prevent Litter
Dispose of waste properly and join community cleanups.