Stormwater Management

MS4, short for “Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System,” refers to a collection of structures, including retention basins, ditches, roadside inlets, and underground pipes that help to mitigate stormwater. Stormwater occurs when precipitation from rain or melting ice or snow flows over the land’s surface. As land development occurs, the amount and rate of this stormwater increases. This runoff is carried to our community’s local waterways, such as streams, ponds rivers, and wetlands. Without properly managed stormwater, properties may experience erosion and flooding.

The MS4 Program is managed by the Pennsylvania Department of Environment that requires communities with “Urbanized Areas” (per the U.S. Census Bureau) to take part. The six focus areas that the Environmental Protection Agency considers essential include: Public Education and Outreach, Construction Site Erosion Control, Public Participation and Involvement, Post Construction Stormwater Management, Illicit Discharge Detection, and Elimination, and Pollution Prevention and Good Housekeeping.

Please explore the links below for more information about stormwater management and the MS4 Program in Union Township!