Stormwater Management
Long Beach is a barrier island, and with stormwater runoff greatly impacting our coastal environment, we must do our share when it comes to preventing pollutants from entering the surrounding waterways. Stormwater pollution is caused when debris, dirt, pet waste, household pesticides and other contaminants are carried into the storm drain system through road surfaces, sidewalks and lawns. Anything entering the stormwater system is then discharged untreated into the bay.
As a municipality, we are committed to clean water and a safe environment for all. The City is in compliance with regulations issued by the US EPA (Environmental Protection Agency) to prevent illicit discharges from municipal operations and to supply residents and the business community with information that can help protect our water.
Click on the links below to view copies of the Stormwater Newsletter or a draft copy of the city's Stormwater Management Program Annual Report. The Report is also available at the library, in the City Clerk's Office and in the Department of Public Works.
The Draft of the City 2019 Storm Water Management Program Annual Report (SWMPAR) is now available for public review, below, and at the office of the City Clerk and Department of Public Works in City Hall, as well as at the Long Beach Public Library. Comments and questions on the City Storm Water Management Program can be submitted to (516) 431-1000 or info@longbeachny.gov. Click here for more information.
Here's how you can help reduce Stormwater Runoff:
Simply put, keep litter, pet waste, leaves,and debris out of street gutters and storm drains—these outlets drain directly to our bay. Pick up litter. Make sure that trash is placed in secured receptacles so that it isn’t carried into the storm drains when it gets windy. Recycle plastics, glass and paper and dispose of household chemicals properly. Keep storm drains clear to help rain water to drain away quickly to keep streets passable. Read on to find out more about "Stormwater Pollution Solutions" and help keep our local bays and waterways clean!
PET WASTE When left in the street,pet waste can increase health risks for humans, fish and other wildlife by allowing bacteria and excess nutrients to wash into storm drains and into our canals and bay. Just 1 gram of pet waste contains approximately 23 million fecal coliform bacteria which can cause gastrointestional, ear, eye and throat infections in humans and can suffocate fish and plant life. Remember to pick up pet waste and dispose of it properly. Remove waste from the bag and flush it; bag it and throw it in the trash; or use one of the City’s Pet Waste Stations.
GARDENING Use fertilizers and pesticides sparingly. Don’t rake leaves, grass clippings & debris into the street or let them accumulate on sidewalks. If you apply fertilizer before it rains, much of it will wash into the storm drains, causing problems for marine life due to the oxygen-consuming materials. You may consider using organic, slow-release fertilizers. In addition, do not overwater your lawn. Consider using a soaker hose instead of a sprinkler. Install a rain barrel to water gardens and lawns.
AUTO CARE Washing your car at home can send detergents & other contaminants into the storm drains. Use soap sparingly, empty your bucket of used soapy water down the sink not in the street. Best of all take your car to a commercial car wash. Most car washes reuse wash water. Don’t dump automotive fluids in the gutter or drain. Check your car for leaks and recycle used motor oil.
HOUSEHOLD WASTE Do not dispose of household hazardous waste in storm drains, sinks or toilets. Dispose of used oil, antifreeze, paints, and other household chemicals or batteries at the S.T.O.P. Program.