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Stormwater Management

Stormwater runoff is generated when precipitation from rain and snow melt events flow over land and impervious surfaces and does not infiltrate into the ground. The runoff from streets, lawns, farms, and construction and industrial sites pick up fertilizers, dirt, pesticides, oil, grease and many other pollutants and discharge into our lakes, streams and rivers. This untreated discharge is detrimental to our water quality as it can adversely affect our drinking water supply and environment. Many Best Management Practices (BMP’s) such as detention/retention/infiltration basins, are already in place to help keep out water clean.

Warwick Township regulates stormwater management which goes above and beyond typical BMP’s through a permit that is obtained from the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection (PA DEP) through the National Pollution and Discharge Elimination System Phase II (NPDES)/Municipals Separate Storm Sewer System (MS4). This is a Federal requirement from the United States Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) that is administered by the PA DEP. This NPDES Permit is broken up into six minimum control measures to be regulated and enforced by the Township. These minimum control measures include:

  1. Public Education and Outreach
  2. Public Participation/Involvement
  3. Illicit Discharge, Detection and Elimination
  4. Construction Site Runoff Control
  5. Post-Construction Runoff Control
  6. Pollution Prevention / Good Housekeeping

Warwick Township has begun monitoring and testing of storm sewer outfalls that have flow during dry periods. The township asks all residents to cooperate with the inspectors, as some outfalls are located on private properties.

For any questions or concerns regarding stormwater or to report illicit discharges to the storm sewer system please call the Township at (215) 343-6100.

There are many ways you can help the Township with its stormwater program and participate in volunteering programs that will keep trash, debris and other pollutants out of the storm sewer system. For more information on ways you get involved with your community, please visit the following site:  PennDOT: Adopt-A-Highway.

PennState Extension Webinars: Residential Stormwater Solutions

Watershed-Friendly Recommendations – Discover how the Watershed-Friendly Property Certification and Stormwater Basics Series can help residents implement stormwater management best practices and safeguard water resources on their properties. November 14, 2023 (12:00pm-1pm)

Use and Benefits of Rain Barrels – Join us for a discussion on the uses and advantages of rain barrels for homeowners and provide information on a basic DIY rain barrel construction method. November 16, 2023 (12:00pm-1:00pm)

Rain Gardens – A Stormwater Slam Dunk – Join us for this webinar, which will educate participants on the benefits, design, and maintenance of rain gardens, a crucial stormwater management feature. November 21, 2023 (12:00pm-1:00pm)

Backyard Meadows – Join our informative webinar on the advantages and fundamental aspects of installing and maintaining a backyard meadow. Learn to assess whether a meadow is a viable option for your property, regardless of its size. November 28, 2023 (12:00pm-1:00pm)

Stormwater-Friendly Lawn Care Strategies – This session will encompass various topics, such as downsizing your lawn, optimizing fertilizer use, effective mowing techniques, preventing soil compaction, and managing pests effectively. November 30, 2023 (12:00 pm-1:00pm)

Resources for Residents: