Show All Answers

1. What is stormwater runoff?

Stormwater runoff occurs when precipitation from rain or snowmelt flows over ground. Impervious surfaces like driveways, sidewalks, and streets prevent stormwater from naturally soaking into the ground.

2. Why is stormwater runoff a problem?

Stormwater can pick up debris, chemicals, dirt, and other pollutants and flow into a storm sewer system or directly to a lake, stream, river, wetland, or coastal water. Anything that enters a storm sewer system is discharged untreated into the water bodies we use for swimming, fishing, and providing drinking water.

3. Where does my stormwater go?

Stormwater runoff from Sugar Land flows to Oyster Creek.

In the near future, additional water supplies will be pumped through Oyster Creek from the Brazos River to serve as the primary potable water source for the City of Sugar Land. Drinking water is treated to remove harmful contaminants and make it safe for human consumption. Higher concentrations of contaminants in our stormwater require more treatment to make the water safe for us to drink.

4. Who do I call if I see anyone illegally dumping into the storm drain?

Call the City of Sugar Land's stormwater Hotline at 281-275-2450 to submit an anonymous report if you observe any of the following:

• Illegal dumping of trash and debris along roadways or in creeks
• Leaking automobiles
• Concrete dumped in the street or storm drain
• Paint dumped in storm drain
• Motor oil dumped in storm drain
• Sediment runoff from construction sites
• Yard clippings blown or swept into storm drains
• Sewage or septic tank leaks

5. What can I do to help?

• Be aware of the stormwater pollution problem. Awareness is the first step.
• Dispose of household chemicals and used oil properly.
• Keep pet wastes, leaves and other debris out of storm drains.
• Participate in cleanup activities in your neighborhood.
• Take caution with your use of lawn care products. Follow the directions.
• Maintain your vehicle on a regular basis to prevent leaks.
• Recycle.
• Spread the word about pollution prevention.

6. What type of pollutants are found in stormwater?

Some of the most common contaminants that are found in stormwater are listed below. For more information see the stormwater overview:

• Sediment from eroded soil and construction sites
• Excess nutrients from lawn fertilizers
• Excess organic matter from leaf and grass clippings
• Bacteria and disease causing organisms from pet waste or raw, untreated sewage
• Debris / Trash such as plastic bags, cans, bottles, and cigarette butts
• Household hazardous waste like insecticides, pesticides, paint, solvents, used motor oil, and other auto fluids
• Metal particles deposited on roadways from automobiles