Water is a very important natural resource to us. The City of South Sioux City wants to protect this very important resource. This is one of the reasons a Storm Water Management Plan was developed and put into action. Please help our community preserve our natural resources by taking part in the storm water management plan.
What is storm water?
Storm water does not go to a treatment plant like sewer water does. It simply flows into our ponds, lakes, wetlands, marshes, rivers, and oceans UNTREATED.
The road surfaces, sidewalks, curb, and gutter all carry storm water to the storm drains. Keep these surfaces clean and free of contaminants, so they don't make their way to the storm drains. If too much debris enters the storm water system, it can cause flooding when the ditches and pipes become blocked. Storm water systems are not disposal systems for waste. They serve to protect our homes from flooding. Properly disposing of trash, pet waste, paint, oil, leaves, litter, and other contaminants will help protect assets of our community by reducing flooding. Other risks of dumping into the storm drain include killing fish, destroying wildlife habitats, decreasing the aesthetic value of our community, and contaminating the water that we boat in, swim in, fish in, and drink. It's a risk to our environment and a risk to our health to pollute in the storm drains.
Be aware of the systems around you and report illegal dumping by calling the city at 402.494.7573.
What is a Storm Water Management Plan?
The Nebraska Department of Environmental Quality (NDEQ) through the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) require the City of South Sioux City to have a Storm Water Management Plan in place for the community to protect the storm water system. The plan is required through the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES).
The City of South Sioux City owns, operates, and maintains the storm water system that serves the community. There are many miles of pipe throughout the city that collect and convey storm water. The system drains storm water directly into the Missouri River. The plan is set up to limit (to the maximum extent practicable) the discharge of pollutants into the waters of the United States.
How can I help prevent storm water pollution?
1. Trash Disposal: Dispose of trash in a covered trash can or recycling container with a lid. Do your part in picking up trash on the street or on the sidewalk. Trash can clog a storm drain and cause flooding.
2. Hazardous Household Waste: Dispose of hazardous household waste at a proper facility. Hazardous waste includes paint, cleaning products, and fuel.
3. Yard Waste: Dispose of grass clippings and leaf litter at a proper location such as a compost pile. Keep yard waste out of the storm drains.
4. Pet Waste: Dispose of pet waste in the trash or flush it down the toilet. This waste carries harmful bacteria and it should be properly treated and not released into the storm drains.
5. Fertilizer and Pesticide Use: Use fertilizers and pesticides sparingly. Follow the directions and clean up any spills on the sidewalks or roadways.
6. Vehicle Maintenance: Keep vehicles in good working order. Check for leaks and clean up any spills. Properly dispose of used motor oil at a recycling facility. Most Wal-Marts accept a certain amount of used motor oil daily.
7. Rain Water Collection: Collect rain water from downspouts to use to water the flowers and the garden.
8. Public Meetings: Attend public meetings about storm water in South Sioux City.
9. Website: Check the South Sioux City website on a regular basis for information on public meetings and new storm water information.
10. Report Illegal Dumping: Call the city at 402.494.7573
Remember, Only Rain Down The Drain!
Important Documents and Resources
2023 Stormwater Management Plan
"After The Storm"
National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES)
Nebraska DEE Construction Storm Water Permit - Fact Sheet
NPDES General Permit
South Sioux City Stormwater Ordinance
Storm Water Information Packet
Threatened and Endangered Species Guidance Checklist for NPDES Construction Storm Water General Permit
Illicit Discharge Detection and Elimination Program Manual
Illicit Discharge Detection and Elimination Tracking Form
Click here to report a stormwater/illicit discharge issue