STORMWATER PROGRAM

When the land surface is changed from soil to an impervious surface such as asphalt, concrete or roofs, no rainwater is able to soak into the ground.  This means more rainwater accumulates on the land and runs off onto surfaces downhill, which also may be paved with impervious surfaces.  In urban areas and even in lower density suburban areas, excess stormwater can cause water quality degradation, flooding and erosion.

In some cases land conversion to impervious surfaces is regulated to ensure that these undesirable changes in the land surface do not harm downhill landowners, municipalities or the natural environment.

The District is available to advise landowners and developers on ways to use their land without producing these detrimental effects of poorly managed stormwater.  We routinely review building plans on behalf of municipalities or landowners when our assistance is requested.

For the Town of Cortlandville, which has its own stormwater ordinance, the District reviews all proposed projects regulated by the ordinance and manages a stormwater facility inspection program.  Each year, District staff inspects approximately one-third of the 40+ commercial properties within the Town that have permanent stormwater facilities required by their stormwater permit.  Although facilities can differ considerably in design, all are designed to infiltrate, improve water quality and detain large storm volumes.  During an inspection, District personnel review design documents and evaluate the stormwater facilities to ensure that they are fully functional.  In addition, the District seeks annual self-reporting information from all properties within the program.  We prepare an annual report that compiles all of this information as well as any recommendations for improvements and submit the report to the Town.

4-hour Erosion and Sediment Control classes offered by Cortland County SWCD – click HERE for more information