When snow melts, water runs off our streets, driveways, and yards, and ultimately ends up in our rivers, creeks, and wetlands. This runoff is called stormwater. Stormwater picks up garbage, chemicals, pet waste, salt, gravel, dirt, and other debris, washing it into our storm drains and our rivers.
The City of Calgary and Calgarians need to work together to manage our stormwater. In newer communities, The City uses storm ponds to help naturally treat stormwater by slowing the flow, allowing sediment and pollution to settle before entering our rivers. While these are found in newer communities, stormwater is not cleaned by a treatment plant, which is why keeping it pollution free is so important. Clean stormwater ensures our rivers, creeks, and wetlands, as well as local wildlife and fish, remain healthy for future generations.
Together we can keep our rivers and creeks healthy by:
- Shovelling shortly after it snows to prevent ice and reduce salt, sand, or gravel use.
- Following the manufacturer’s instructions if using salt on your driveway or sidewalks, so you’re not using more than needed.
- Sweeping up excess salt, sand, and gravel from your driveway and sidewalks.
- Continuing to pick up pet waste and litter off the ground and dispose of them in the right disposal bin.
What ends up on our streets, ends up in our rivers. For more tips and information, visit calgary.ca/stormwater.
