Stormwater Program
Construction Site Erosion Control
Post Construction Stormwater Management
Public Education and Outreach(SmartWatershed REBATES)
Pollution Prevention/Good Housekeeping
Stormwater Violations/Illicit Discharge
Drone Video of the South Skunk River Stabilization Project
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. Protecting Iowa's Water Quality.
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 Fees cover the costs of the program.
