Stormwater FAQs

Learn how you can help protect our streams, prevent flooding, and keep our community healthy.

 

What Is a Rain Garden — and How Can I Make One?

A rain garden is a planted area designed to absorb rainwater that runs off roofs, driveways, and other hard surfaces.
Rain gardens help our community by:

  • Increasing the amount of stormwater that recharges groundwater
  • Filtering pollutants that wash off roofs, lawns, and paved areas
  • Providing beautiful habitat for birds, butterflies, and beneficial insects

 A more detailed guide is available from the CRC Watersheds Association.

 

Why Did Pennsylvania Start Regulating Stormwater?

Since 1978, Pennsylvania has had laws to control stormwater as required by the federal government.
For many years, enforcement was limited—until Hurricane Floyd (1999) caused severe flooding and property damage.

Afterward, the state and federal governments strengthened efforts to reduce downstream flooding caused by development.

 

What Is NPDES Phase II?

NPDES stands for National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System — a program developed by the PA Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) to manage stormwater pollution and flooding.

The Delaware County Conservation District (DCCD) oversees compliance for construction stormwater permits.
State laws require municipalities to:

  • Obtain stormwater permits
  • Regulate water quality and quantity from construction sites and new development
  • Prevent illegal dumping into storm sewers
  • Educate the public about pollution prevention

 

How Does NPDES Phase II Affect Me or My Neighborhood?

If you live on a street with municipal storm sewers, you share responsibility for keeping them clean.

You should:

  • Keep inlets and drains free of sediment and debris
  • Report illegal dumping into storm drains
  • Notify township officials if you see malfunctioning septic systems or illegal pipe connections

 For more info, see When It Rains, It Drains (brochure link coming soon).

 

What Watershed Am I In?

Edgmont Township includes three major watersheds:

  • Chester Creek Watershed – Western portion of the Township
  • Ridley Creek Watershed – Central and parts of the western portion (includes Ridley Creek State Park)
  • Crum Creek Watershed – Eastern portion

Tributaries: Rocky Run, Stackhouse Mill Run, Plumsock Run, Tagalong Run, and Little Pony Trail Run.

 

I Own a House on Two Acres — Why Should I Care About Stormwater?

Stormwater affects everyone.
If we don’t manage runoff on our own properties, someone downhill pays the price.

Simple actions make a big difference:

  • Use pesticides and fertilizers sparingly
  • Repair vehicle leaks promptly
  • Clean up after pets
  • Wash cars on your lawn, not your driveway
  • Recycle
  • Dispose of hazardous waste (batteries, oil, paint, solvents) properly

 For hazardous waste disposal details, call 610-892-9620 or visit delcopa.gov/recycle/hhw.html

 

“I Don’t Discharge Stormwater From My Property” — Think Again!

Do you have rain gutters? A driveway drain? A pool you empty each fall?
Unless you have a stormwater management system, your runoff eventually reaches a nearby stream.

You can help:

  • Install a rain barrel - contact the Pennsylvania Resource Council at 610-353-1555
  • Redirect downspouts to grassy areas or infiltration beds (dry wells)
  • Never drain pool water directly into storm drains or streams

 

Why Is the Township Involved in Stormwater? Shouldn’t the State Handle It?

Pennsylvania is a large state with many watersheds.
The DEP relies on local governments to manage day-to-day stormwater control, protect clean streams, and reduce flooding.
That’s why municipalities like Edgmont Township play such a key role.

 

I Run a Business in Edgmont Township — How Can I Help?

If you operate a business, you can help prevent pollution:

  • Keep dumpsters closed and leak-free
  • Sweep sidewalks instead of hosing them down
  • Train employees on spill prevention

 For brochures tailored to food establishments, auto repair shops, or gas stations, visit the Township Office.

 

My Neighborhood Uses a Lawn Service — Is That a Problem?

It can be! When fertilizers wash into storm drains, they end up in streams and rivers, causing algae growth that depletes oxygen fish need to survive.

Tips for a healthy, eco-friendly lawn:

  • Don’t fertilize before rainstorms
  • Avoid spraying on driveways or sidewalks
  • Use slow-release or organic fertilizers
  • Leave grass clippings on the lawn — they’re natural fertilizer
  • Add compost to poor soil areas
  • Maintain a natural buffer of un-mowed vegetation near waterways

 

What Is the County Doing to Help?

Under The Stormwater Management Act (Act 167 of 1978), Pennsylvania counties must prepare a stormwater plan for each watershed.

Delaware County has completed a plan for the Chester Creek Watershed.
Edgmont Township has adopted plans for the Chester, Ridley, and Crum Creek watersheds.

 

I Have a Septic System — Should I Worry About Pollution?

Yes. Even properly installed systems can fail if not maintained. Septic systems should be pumped every 2 years and inspected regularly.

Best practices:

  • Never flush chemicals or medications
  • Avoid pouring paint, thinners, bleach, or oils into drains
  • Don’t use garbage disposals heavily
  • Keep trees/shrubs at least 35 feet from drain fields
  • Direct surface runoff and snowmelt away from your septic field

For more information, contact your DEP Regional Office at 484-250-5900 or visit dep.state.pa.us.