News Flash

Did you know November 17 is National Stormwater Day?

This annual observance was created by the National Municipal Stormwater Alliance (NMSA) to commemorate a key milestone in clean water protection, the establishment of the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) Phase I Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System (MS4) program.

Since then, thousands of communities, including Peachtree Corners, have created stormwater programs and installed measures to reduce pollution and protect local waterways. National Stormwater Day celebrates these efforts and highlights the importance of managing stormwater to protect the environment.

As part of our recognition of National Stormwater Day, the City has planned a volunteer opportunity so the community can get involved.

Public Volunteer Opportunity

REGISTER TO VOLUNTEER HERE

Stormwater Storm Drain Marking Volunteer Opportunity

Tuesday, December 2^nd 

1 PM to 3 PM

Curiosity Lab Parking Lot

147 Technology Parkway, Peachtree Corners

Volunteer Project: Marking Storm Drains in Technology Park - Marking a storm drain is a simple process where folks walk neighborhoods/streets/areas and adhere placards to the top of the storm drains.

Marked storm drains serve as a constant reminder to people that those drains end in our creeks.  Creating visibility of the interconnectivity of our drainage systems to the neighborhood creeks/streams helps everyone understand that trash, yard clippings, and other types of wastes washed out of our yards, parking lots, and streets will ultimately end up in our waterways. 

What Is Stormwater—and Why Does It Matter?

Stormwater is water that originates from precipitation—rain, hail, or melting snow. After a storm, this water can:

• Soak into the ground and become groundwater,
• Evaporate into the atmosphere, or
• Flow across surfaces as runoff into streams, rivers, and lakes.

In natural areas, soil and vegetation absorb much of this water. But in developed environments where pavement, rooftops, and compacted soil prevent absorption, stormwater often flows rapidly across surfaces, picking up pollutants like oil, fertilizers, litter, and chemicals along the way. This can lead to two major problems: flooding and water pollution.

10 Easy Ways You Can Help Protect Our Waterways

Small actions at home can have a big impact on stormwater quality. Here are ten ways to get started:

1. Maintain your vehicle. Fix oil leaks, recycle fluids, and never dump anything down storm drains.
2. Use commercial car washes. If washing at home, do it on your lawn—not the driveway.
3. Drive less. Carpool, bike, or take transit when you can.
4. Limit lawn chemicals. Use fertilizers and pesticides sparingly, and never before a rainstorm.
5. Go native. Replace part of your lawn with native, drought-resistant plants and mulch.
6. Maintain your septic system. Regular inspection and pumping prevent costly failures and pollution.
7. Pick up after pets. Dispose of waste properly to prevent bacteria from reaching waterways.
8. Reduce impervious surfaces. Redirect downspouts into vegetated areas and consider permeable paving.
9. Don’t Litter: Properly dispose of trash, including cigarette butts. 
10. Support local programs. Participate in community cleanups or stream restoration projects.

Let’s Work Together for Cleaner Water

Every drop counts—whether it’s soaking into your yard, flowing down a storm drain, or reaching our rivers and lakes. By understanding how stormwater works and taking simple steps to manage it responsibly, we can all contribute to a healthier, more resilient community.

To learn more about the City’s Stormwater Management Program, visit:

https://www.peachtreecornersga.gov/221/Stormwater-Management-Program