Stormwater Quality

Did you know that when rain falls or snow melts, most of the runoff goes directly to a pond, ditch, stream or river with no treatment at all?  Stormwater runoff is a major source of water pollution because of the chemicals and bacteria that it picks up and carries with it.

Fort Wayne's Stormwater Utility is responsible for managing both the quantity and quality of stormwater that runs off streets, buildings, sidewalks, parking lots, and even yards.  Click the links below to find out more about what Fort Wayne is doing to protect the quality of our rivers and streams.

NPDES Phase II Stormwater Program - Rule 13

Many areas of Fort Wayne have sewer lines that carry just stormwater runoff.  There are also many miles of ditches that carry stormwater runoff.  In most cases the water carried by these pipes and ditches goes directly into one of Fort Wayne's rivers without getting any kind of water quality treatment.

The Indiana Department of Environmental Management (IDEM) requires Fort Wayne and many other cities around the state to manage the stormwater discharged from the urbanized area.  The goal of the "Rule 13" program is to protect human helath, aquatic life and existing water resources.

• Indiana Department of Environmental Management - MS4 Program
• US Environmental Protection Agency Stormwater Program

Disposing of Household Hazardous Wastes

One way that you can help protect the quality of Fort Wayne's rivers is by properly disposing of household hazardous wastes.  Never dump chemicals, cleaners, paints, automotive fluids or anything else down a storm drain.  Instead, take them to the annual Allen County Solid Waste Management District's Tox Away Day.

The event is usually held in September and is open to Allen County residents. Minimal fees apply.  Visit www.acwastewatcher.org for more information or to find other options for disposing of household hazardous wastes.