How Stormwater Affects Neighborhoods, Communities and Coastal Residents

Every street, driveway, parking lot and yard can contribute to stormwater pollution. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) named stormwater runoff as the single largest cause of pollution in the United States today.

Stormwater runoff directly impacts the natural environment and causes changes in water quality that result in a variety of problems such as:
• Modification and loss of wildlife habitats
• Increased flooding
• Increased sedimentation

In addition to the impacts on the environment, stormwater runoff also directly impacts quality of life. Poor water quality affects swimming, boating and fishing; it closes beaches and affects tourism; and it ultimately affects property values.

Educating people about the impacts of stormwater pollution is important to help preserve the environment, recreation and quality of life. Carolina Clear is a comprehensive program that offers easy to learn principles about how homeowners, farmers, youth, commercial and residential developers, golf course managers, hotels and restaurants can reduce stormwater pollution in their homes and businesses.