(NEWBERG, OR) – The City of Newberg is seeking public input on stormwater and water quality outreach and education to gauge where the community stands in terms of knowledge and interest on these topics. The survey will help staff to identify future outreach and education goals related to treatment of wastewater and pollution mitigation programs.
The survey is part of the city’s compliance with Oregon Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) requirements for public outreach and education on the topics of stormwater, water quality, and water pollution. While the survey is being undertaken as part of these requirements, efforts to reduce pollution and keep our watershed clean and healthy are important goals of the city. Take the survey at this link: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/SCX87Z3
Let’s talk about TMDL – Total Maximum Daily Load
The Oregon DEQ sets the Total Maximum Daily Load of pollutants that can enter the Willamette River from local streams. Newberg is part of watershed that includes five different streams. The city’s TMDL program covers pollutants that enter streams as runoff from driveways, streets, roofs, lawns, and fields. Businesses should already be familiar with limits for “end-of-pipe” discharge.
Why is this Important?
Developed areas (like cities, towns, or agricultural fields) have more sediment, oil, litter, feces, nitrogen, phosphorus, and other chemicals that runoff to streams. This results in banks eroding, stream bottoms turning to muck, invasive species and algae blooms. All of these factors have a negative impact on aquatic life and can cause imbalance and destruction in these fragile systems. The TMDL helps control the pollutants entering the Willamette from our streams.
You Can Help!
- While the city covers the control of infrastructure maintenance, stormwater management, and some erosion control, there are ways the members of the community can get involved to protect our precious natural resources:
- Keep stormwater drains clear so they can properly drain
- Notify the city if you suspect anyone is dumping anything in a manhole or stream (remember, only rain in the storm drain!) – Call 503-537-1234 (Maintenance) during the day or at night 503-538-8321 (Non-emergency dispatch)
- Always dispose of trash, chemicals, and pet waste properly.
- Learn more about ways you can help on our website: https://www.newbergoregon.gov/government/departments/engineering/stormwater_management/about_storm_drains.php
Questions? Contact environment@newbergoregon.gov
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[Download the Press Release]
