Protect our rivers: How pollution from land reaches our waterways

Did you know that pollution from homes, yards, and streets can flow directly into our rivers? Many people don’t realize that when it rains, water runs off roofs, buildings, driveways, and streets, picking up dirt, oil, chemicals, and debris along the way. This runoff doesn’t get treated. It flows straight into storm drains and eventually ends up in our local rivers including the McKenzie and Willamette.

How stormwater flows

Rain follows a simple path:

1. Runoff from Roofs – Rain hits your roof and flows down.
2. Runoff from Gutters – Water collects in your gutters and may carry leaves, dirt, and debris.
3. Runoff from Lawns and Driveways – Fertilizers, pesticides, pet waste, and car fluids can be swept away by rain.
4. Enters Storm Drains – Storm drains capture this runoff, carrying pollution with it.
5. Flows to Waterways or Groundwater – Some water seeps into the ground, but excess runoff often flows directly into local rivers.
6. Impacts Water Quality– Polluted runoff can harm people, fish, plants, and wildlife that depend on clean water.

Stormwater isn’t cleaned like wastewater

Springfield has three separate systems for managing water. Stormwater isn’t purified like the others are:

• Drinking Water System – This system provides clean, safe water to homes and businesses.
• Wastewater System – This system carries used drinking water from inside homes and businesses (like sinks, toilets, showers, and washing machines) to the Regional Wastewater Treatment Plant where it gets cleaned before it’s released to the Willamette River.
• Stormwater System – This system handles rain that falls outdoors and can’t soak into the ground because it lands on hard surfaces (roofs, driveways, etc.). Unlike wastewater, stormwater is not fully treated before it flows into storm drains and out to local waterways.

Water quality is everyone’s responsibility

Local, state, and federal laws require everyone in the U.S. to do their part in preventing water pollution. While the City of Springfield provides information and support, the actions that keep our rivers clean starts with each of us. Here’s ways to do your part:

• Sweep leaves and debris instead of washing them down the driveway.
• Use fertilizers and pesticides sparingly.
• Pick up pet waste and dispose of it properly.
• Check your car for leaks and fix them quickly.

By taking these simple steps, you’re doing your part to protect Springfield’s rivers, wildlife, and groundwater. Together, we can keep the Willamette and McKenzie rivers clean and healthy.