Stormwater Program

As land becomes urban, less water infiltrates into the ground. The amount and speed of the water running off the land surfaces increases and results in more frequent flooding, soil erosion, and stream bank instability. Stormwater management reduces these impacts.

Management practices reduce flooding and pollutants and increase infiltration into the soil. Pollutants can include oil, grease, nutrients, sediment, metals, and bacteria. Practices improve water quality of our local streams, ponds and lakes.

Ames has a Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System (MS4) permit from the Iowa Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) to discharge stormwater into the waters of the State. The Public Works Department oversees the permit. It receives help from the Parks and Recreation, Communications and Fire Departments. Residents, businesses and the City work together to carry out the requirement of the permit.  Stormwater Utility Feescover the costs of the program.

2025 Resident Stormwater Survey Results(PDF, 4MB)