Boston Water and Sewer Commission We're Changing the Way We Charge for Stormwater What is stormwater? And how does it become a source of pollution? Stormwater runoff is water from rain or snowmelt that does not soak into the ground. As stormwater flows over hard (impervious) surfaces, it collects trash, sediment, and pollutants like motor oil and fertilizer. Impervious surfaces like roofs, patios, roadways, parking lots, and sidewalks prevent water from absorbing into the ground. Stormwater is not treated, so these surfaces allow more pollutants to enter local waterways. The image below shows a Boston cityscape and the features of our stormwater system. Next year, the Boston Water and Sewer Commission will launch an expanded stormwater program that meets an elevated need for investment in stormwater infrastructure and green solutions. The program will include the creation of a proposed separate stormwater charge and credits/grants for customers who work to reduce stormwater runoff from their property. For more information visit: www.bwsc.org/stormwater 30,000 CATCH BASINS 600 MILES OF STORM PIPE ROOF RUNOFF STREET RUNOFF 250 OUTFALLS Boston Water and Sewer Commission We're Changing the Way We Charge for Stormwater What is stormwater ? And how does it become a source of pollution ? Stormwater runoff is water from rain or snowmelt that does not soak into the ground . As stormwater flows over hard ( impervious ) surfaces , it collects trash , sediment , and pollutants like motor oil and fertilizer . Impervious surfaces like roofs , patios , roadways , parking lots , and sidewalks prevent water from absorbing into the ground . Stormwater is not treated , so these surfaces allow more pollutants to enter local waterways . The image below shows a Boston cityscape and the features of our stormwater system . Next year , the Boston Water and Sewer Commission will launch an expanded stormwater program that meets an elevated need for investment in stormwater infrastructure and green solutions . The program will include the creation of a proposed separate stormwater charge and credits / grants for customers who work to reduce stormwater runoff from their property . For more information visit : www.bwsc.org/stormwater 30,000 CATCH BASINS 600 MILES OF STORM PIPE ROOF RUNOFF STREET RUNOFF 250 OUTFALLS