Stormwater pollution
DID YOU KNOW?
Water that goes into storm drains in Abita Springs eventually end up in the Abita River.
DID YOU KNOW? Only water that drains through your house drainage system is treated before going into the Abita River.
That's RIGHT! That mop water your neighbor dumped down the stormdrain is going into the same River you might fish out of. Not only is it gross but it's also ILLEGAL.
It's called Stormwater Pollution
SEE SOMETHING.
SAY SOMETHING.
Please report any illegal
dumping or discharges to
Town Marshal Mike Slemmer, immediately: (985) 892-0711 or marshal@abitaspringsla.gov
Helpful Tips:
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Do not dispose of chemicals down the drain.
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Report anything suspicious or unusual around stormwater.
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Clean up after your pets, and do not litter.
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Do not maintain or wash your car in public areas, where runoff will easily flow to stormwater.
How can you help?
Use the information found on this page to educate yourself, your family, and your community! Each resident of Abita Springs can help protect the quality of the Abita River, by following these simple steps:
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Use pesticides and fertilizers sparingly.
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Repair auto leaks.
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Dispose of household hazardous waste, used auto fluids (antifreeze, oil, etc.), and batteries at designated collection or recycling locations.
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Clean up after your pet.
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Use a commercial car wash or wash your car on a lawn or other unpaved surface.
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Sweep up yard debris rather than hosing down areas.
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Compost or recycle yard waste when possible.
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Clean paint brushes in a sink, not outdoors.
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Properly dispose of excess paints through a household hazardous waste collection program.
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Report illicit discharges by calling the Town of Abita Springs at (985) 892-0711 or by emailing town.marshall@townofabitasprings.com.
Frequently asked questions
What does MS4 stand for?
Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System
The term “MS4” is commonly used to describe both:
–The infrastructure used to convey storm water runoff
–The owner/operator of the infrastructure that is permitted to discharge this runoff
What is Stormwater?
Stormwater runoff is generated from rain and snowmelt events that flow over land or impervious surfaces, such as paved streets, parking lots, and building rooftops, and does not soak into the ground. The runoff picks up pollutants like trash, chemicals, oils, and dirt/sediment that can harm our rivers, streams, lakes, and coastal waters.
What Category does the Town of Abita Springs Fall Into?
Small MS4s (typically < 100,000 in population)
Traditional MS4s (Municipalities)
Typically stormwater management duties fall to the public works department or similar agency
•Traditional MS4s use local ordinances (i.e., the municipal code) to enforce stormwater management requirements
•More recently, many municipalities are creating stormwater utilities to manage stormwater (and collect user fees from citizens to operate program)
–Educate town council
–Develop fair rates
–Educate the public
What You Can Do to Help
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Always pick up after your pet!
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Never dump anything down storm drains.
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Maintain your lawn with minimum use of chemicals.
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Do not let yard waste accumulate on paved surfaces- sweep up driveways, sidewalks and roads.
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Check your car for leaks and recycle used motor oil.
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Have your septic tank pumped and have your system tank inspected regularly.
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Before beginning any outdoor projects, locate the nearest storm drain and protect it from debris.
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Drain swimming pools only when necessary. Before draining allow pool water to stand for a few days without adding any chemicals as chlorine dissipates rapidly.
What's Happening Around Town
