Stormwater Management
Stormwater Management
The City of Oak Grove is currently working on implementing its Stormwater Management Program for the requirements of the MS4 (municipal separate storm sewer systems) and NPDES (National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System) regulations. The goal of the General Permit is to reduce pollutant levels in point source discharges and protect water quality in accordance with the U.S. Clean Water Act, Minnesota statutes and rules, and federal laws and regulations.
The City of Oak Grove’s Stormwater Management Program consists of Public Education and Outreach, Public Involvement/Participation, Illicit Discharge and Elimination, Construction Site Stormwater Runoff Control, Post-Construction Stormwater Management in New Developments and Redevelopment, and Pollution Prevention/Good Housekeeping for Municipal Operations. All of these control measures will ensure clean stormwater in the City of Oak Grove and a cleaner environment for our future.
What is Stormwater?
Stormwater is water from rain or melting snowfall that flows across the land and into rivers, creeks, lakes, ditches and wetlands.
What Causes Stormwater Pollution?
Stormwater runoff results in debris, sediment, pollutants, bacteria and nutrients on sidewalks, streets and parking lots washing into storm drains. This contaminated stormwater eventually flows untreated into the rivers, creeks, lakes, and wetlands.
What are Common Contributors to Stormwater Pollution?
- Antifreeze
- Oil
- Detergents
- Pesticides
- Erosion
- Trash
- Animal Wastes
What Can You Do to Prevent Pollution?
- Clean up after your pet.
- Use lawn and garden chemicals sparingly or use organic alternatives.
- Don't dump anything into storm drains. Most lead directly into area waterways.
- Wash your car on the lawn or gravel, which filter the dirt and soap out of the water. Use soaps without phosphates, which remove oxygen from the water. Or go to a car wash that recycles wash water.
- Fix oil leaks in your car and recycle oil and other car fluids.
- Keep your septic system maintained to prevent leaks.
- Sweep driveways and sidewalks instead of hosing them off.
- Reduce the amount of impervious surfaces around your home. Alternatives such as paving blocks, gravel, cobbles, brick and natural stone can replace asphalt and concrete in driveways, parking lots and walkways.
- Clean leaves and other debris off of storm drains.
The following links will direct you to reference documents pertaining to Stormwater Management
- MPCA Permit Authorization Letter and Requirements
- MS4 Part 2 Permit Application
What is the Illicit Discharge Detection Elimination (IDDE) Plan?
The City is required to implement an IDDE program to systematically find and eliminate sources of non-stormwater discharges to its municipal separate storm sewer system and implement procedures to prevent such discharges. The IDDE program must be recorded in a written (hardcopy or electronic) document. This IDDE Plan has been prepared to address this requirement.
The City of Oak Grove updated their Stormwater Management Program Plan and Illicit Discharge Detection Elimination Plan as part of EPA's requirements for its third NPDES permit. These plans are living documents and will be updated throughout the permit cycle. Below are links to these plans:
- Stormwater Management Program (SWMP) Plan
- Illicit Discharge Detection Elimination (IDDE) Plan
- Current Annual NPDES Stormwater Compliance Report
Stormwater Management Materials
- Public Awareness Materials
How can you help and where do you go for additional information?
Please call City Hall at (763) 404-7000. If you:
- Have any questions or comments on these plans
- Provide input on the City’s SWPPP
- Are interested in getting involved with improving our stormwater management
- To report a potential Illicit Discharge to the City.
Additional Notes
Park Cleanup App
Ditch Clean Up App
MS4 information: