Stormwater Management

Stormwater Management concerns the control of water (rain, snow and ice melt) that runs off the land. The Borough of Ambler owns and maintains the storm sewer that conveys runoff to the Tannery Run and the Stuart Farm, Rose Valley and Wissahickon Creeks. The borough storm sewer is comprised of roads, gutters, inlets, storm pipe, channels, and swales. On average, Ambler receives about 4 feet of precipitation annually.

Because stormwater runoff picks up pollution from land surfaces, efforts to control stormwater pollution must consider individual, household and public behaviors and activities that can generate pollution from these surfaces. Remember, the rain that drains from the roadway, your roof, or that runs off from your property in Ambler eventually makes its way to the Wissahickon Creek and the Delaware River. It is important that the borough and every property owner manage the runoff from their properties to eliminate or minimize the amount of pollutants in stormwater.

These common individual behaviors have the potential to contribute to stormwater pollution:

littering
improper disposal of trash and recyclables
improper disposal of pet waste
application of lawn chemicals
car washing
changing motor oil on paved driveways
improper disposal of leftover paint and household chemicals.

The National Pollution Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) Municipal Small, Separate Storm Sewer (MS4) Program is a United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) program administered by the Pennsylvania Department of Environment Protection (PADEP). The main goal of the MS4 program is to protect water quality. The borough’s MS4 program involves a PADEP-issued permit that includes best management practices (BMPs) and measurable goals for the following:

public education and outreach
public participation and involvement
illicit discharge detection and elimination
construction site runoff control
post-construction stormwater management in new development and redevelopment
pollution prevention
good housekeeping for municipal operations and maintenance.

Borough Engineer Jim Dougherty, of Gilmore & Associates, Inc., has been appointed by borough council to oversee Stormwater Management and compliance. If you identify any problems with stormwater management within the borough, please contact the Borough of Ambler at 215-646-1000.

The PADEP also has a 24-hour Water Quality Hotline that can be reached at 484-250-5900, or 800-541-2050.

MCM#1 – Public Education & Outreach Program

The objective of MCM#1 is to implement a comprehensive public education program aimed at distributing information regarding stormwater management and the MS4 Program mandated by the EPA and PA DEP. This initiative is designed to enhance public understanding of the causes and impacts of stormwater pollution, as well as to empower individuals to take proactive steps to prevent it.

Where to Find Information

Residents can access stormwater information and updates on Ambler Borough’s Stormwater Page, Borough Newsletter, and at the Borough Building. Look out for articles, pamphlets, and flyers that highlight stormwater management activities and provide valuable insights into the MS4 Program. You can also access these partner websites for more information:

National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System

Public Education and Outreach Fact Sheet

Common Sources of Stormwater Pollution

Stormwater runoff is generated from various land surfaces and can be significantly impacted by individual behaviors and activities. Common activities that contribute to stormwater pollution include:

Littering
Improper disposal of trash and recyclables
Pet waste disposal
Application of lawn chemicals
Car washing
Improper disposal of motor oil
Disposal of leftover paint and household chemicals

Promoting Behavior Change

Encouraging individuals to alter their behaviors and adopt proper disposal practices is essential in controlling stormwater pollution. Public awareness about the impact of individual actions on water quality is crucial, as these actions can either degrade or protect our waterways.

Community Education Requirements

As a Phase II MS4, we are mandated to educate our community on the pollution potential of common activities and to increase awareness of the direct links between land activities, rainfall-runoff, storm drains, and local water resources. Our education programs include clear guidance on actionable steps to reduce stormwater pollution.

The Importance of Public Education

Efforts in public education and outreach play a pivotal role in addressing issues such as “nonpoint source” or “stormwater” pollution. These initiatives are instrumental in fostering a community-wide understanding of stormwater management and promoting sustainable practices for protecting our water resources.

MCM#2 – Public Involvement and Participation Program

The objective of MCM#2 is to establish and maintain a program that facilitates public involvement and input for stormwater projects, including the development of stormwater management ordinances, standard operating procedures (SOPs), and the Pollutant Reduction Plan (PRP). This initiative aims to engage the community in decision-making processes and encourage active participation from various stakeholders.

Methods for Encouraging Public Involvement

We provide various opportunities for public input and involvement in stormwater-related initiatives, building on the foundation laid by MCM#1. Residents can contribute feedback on stormwater management ordinances, SOPs, and the PRP, including any proposed modifications.

Community Partnerships and Collaboration

Encouraging community participation and forming partnerships with local groups are integral to achieving our stormwater management goals. By harnessing the collective efforts of interested citizens and organizations, we can effectively spread awareness and foster community-wide action to:

Prevent stormwater pollution
Conduct group activities to address storm drain pollution
Engage in volunteer community actions to restore and protect local water resources

Compliance with Regulatory Requirements

As a Phase II MS4, we are committed to adhering to all state, tribal, and local public notice requirements while implementing our stormwater program. This includes providing opportunities for public input and involvement in decision-making processes related to stormwater management.

Opportunities for Direct Action and Volunteer Programs

Our public involvement efforts extend beyond feedback mechanisms to encompass direct action, educational initiatives, and volunteer programs. Residents can participate in activities such as tree planting days, volunteer monitoring programs, storm drain marking initiatives, and stream clean-up programs.

Promoting Community Engagement

Through MCM#2, we aim to cultivate a culture of community engagement and empower residents to play an active role in protecting and preserving our local water resources. By working together, we can make a significant impact in mitigating stormwater pollution and promoting environmental stewardship within our community.

Public Participation Fact Sheet

Ambler Borough Stormwater Management Ordinance

– please refer to Part 4 of Chapter 26 for Stormwater Management.
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Information for Everyone

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Information for Developers and Contractors

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