Winter Brings Continued Commitment from Colorado State University to Reduce Snowmelt Pollution in Local Rivers

The arrival of snow is welcomed by a variety of outdoor enthusiasts, from downhill and cross-country skiers to ice skaters and hockey players. However, as the sun melts the snow, gallons of snowmelt are created. Colorado State University is continuing its commitment to reduce the amount of stormwater pollution that enters local rivers as a result of the melted snow.

Every year thousands of gallons of water from storms and snowmelt enter the storm drains of Fort Collins, and numerous contaminants and pollutants (pesticides, oils, metals, sediment, animal waste, etc.) are picked up and carried by the water. Storm drains are set up to divert excess water and flow directly into the Poudre River rather than to treatment plants as sanitary wastes do.  The resulting stormwater runoff is referred to as non-point source pollution, a leading source of water pollution according to the National Water Quality Inventory.     

In order to reduce the amount of sediment and pollution that enters surface and ground water from storm sewer systems, the Environmental Protection Agency has enacted the Stormwater Program, also know as MS4 (Municipal Separate Storm Sewer Systems). Through this program, Colorado State is working to reduce the amount of pollution that reaches the Poudre River and Spring Creek from the campus community.       

Colorado State University students, faculty and staff can help keep the waters around Fort Collins clean by:

— Properly disposing of hazardous wastes (paint, car oil, etc.).

–Cleaning up pet waste and disposing of it properly.

— Maintaining vehicles and washing them in appropriate place, such as an established carwash.

— Placing refuse in its appropriate container, including cigarette butts.

If you observe someone illegally discharging wastes around Colorado State University, please report the incident to Colorado State University’s Facilities Dispatch at (970) 491-0099.

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