Public Education

 
  Stormwater pollution from point sources and nonpoint sources is a challenging water quality problem. Unlike pollution from industry or sewage treatment facilities, which is caused by a discrete number of sources, stormwater pollution is caused by the daily activities of people everywhere. Rainwater and snowmelt run off streets, lawns, farms, and construction and industrial sites and pick up fertilizers, dirt, pesticides, oil and grease, and many other pollutants on the way to our rivers, lakes, and coastal waters. Stormwater runoff is our most common cause of water pollution. Because stormwater pollution is caused by so many different activities, traditional regulatory controls will only go so far. Education and outreach are key components to any successful stormwater program.
 
  Mesa County has a hands on model that allow audiences to explore what causes stormwater pollution, and ways that stormwater pollution can be reduced. The model presentation can be tailored to all levels of knowledge from elementary school to adult groups. If you’re interested in having the model presented at your organizations meeting, contact Julie Constan 255-5045.