MS4 & Storm Water Management

What is MS4?Polluted stormwater runoff is commonly transported through Municipal Separate Storm Sewer Systems (MS4s), from which it is often discharged untreated into local waterbodies. To prevent harmful pollutants from being washed or dumped into an MS4, operators must obtain a NPDES permit and develop a stormwater management program. Read More

Below you will find some public outreach resources from the State Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) regarding storm water and MS4.

• When It Rains, It Drains Brochure (PDF): DEP brochure targeted at the general public, providing an overview of stormwater and how communities can help
• MS4 Education and Outreach Presentation (PPTX): PowerPoint presentation that may be used to educate the general public on stormwater (contains speaker's notes and slides)
• Storm Drain Stenciling Flyer (PDF), Press Release (PDF), and Resources (PDF) documents may be used by MS4s for storm drain stenciling projects. More MS4 resources can be found on the Pennsylvania DEP website.

Pollutant Collection

Stormwater runoff from snowmelt or rain can pick up pollutants such as motor oil, lawn chemicals, and pet waste before entering streams untreated. The large amount of untreated water entering the storm sewer system, and eventually our streams, has lasting health, safety, environmental and economic impacts on our community. Fortunately, there are many things that property owners, can do to put stormwater to good use while reducing the amount of runoff that ends up in local waterways. Here are some tips on how you can help:

• Install rain barrels in gardens. Learn the benefits by visiting the Berks County Conservation District website.
• Never discard trash, grass clippings, leaves or any other yard waste down storm drains or in the street.
• Pickup and dispose of pet waste properly.
• Wash your car at a professional car wash which filters the wastewater or wash your car in a grassy area so that runoff benefits the lawn. Do not wash cars on driveways or in the street.
• When applying fertilizers, follow manufacturer's instructions and never apply before rain or watering the lawn.
• Do not change your vehicle oil on the street or driveway. Instead use a professional mechanic which will eliminate any risk of street contamination.
• Report any road killed animals to the Township for disposal.
• Use native plants because they increase water filtration, decrease maintenance and perform better in drought conditions.

Implementing these measures will help keep Muhlenberg Township's waterways clean. Remember your actions can positively benefit the welfare of our community.