Why does my stormwater pond look scummy, turbid or have algae?

Stormwater ponds are designed to capture and treat pollutants from runoff. Whenever it rains, stormwater rushes over impervious surfaces such as streets, sidewalks, roofs or parking lots and rapidly transports contaminants such as oils, salt, pesticides, heavy metals, and pathogens to these ponds. Stormwater runoff also delivers nutrients from pet waste, fertilizers, grass clippings and sediment to the ponds causing algae blooms and green coloring. Pollutant build-up in a pond is often an indication the pond is doing exactly what it was designed to do.

Show All Answers

1. What is stormwater runoff?
2. Why is stormwater runoff a problem?
3. Where does water pollution come from?
4. What are some examples of drainage problems?
5. What is the purpose of storm drains?
6. What’s the difference between a sewer drain and a storm drain?
7. Who owns the stormwater system?
8. What is an impervious area?
9. What are stormwater ponds?
10. Why do we have these ponds in our neighborhoods?
11. Why does my stormwater pond look scummy, turbid or have algae?
12. Can I swim in these ponds?
13. What can I do to help keep my pond looking clean and healthy?