Stormwater Management

Pollution Isn't PrettyStormwater Management in the Township

Stormwater runoff is created when rain falls on pavement, buildings, and other impervious surfaces that do not allow water to soak into the ground. In developed areas like DeWitt Township, we limit flooding by moving this runoff from our roads, parking lots, and neighborhoods through storm drains which discharge directly into rivers and streams. Since the discharge from separate storm sewer systems does not get processed at a treatment plant, any contaminant on the ground can "hitch a ride" with runoff and enter and impact our shared surface waters.

Pet waste, oil, leaves and dirty water from cleaning your car can enter storm drains and flow downstream where it harms aquatic habitats and makes water unsafe for swimming, canoeing and other water-related activities. The Township takes steps to reduce this pollution to improve water quality and to meet State and Federal requirements.

Stormwater Discharge Permit

Per these requirements, the Township must apply for a stormwater discharge permit every five years. A large part of that application consists of a description as to how the Township will commit to and proceed with the development, implementation, and enforcement of practices to reduce the discharge of pollutants from its municipal separate storm sewer system to the maximum extent practicable. This documentation was formally designated as DeWitt Charter Township's Stormwater Management Plan (PDF), which is available for public review and input. The Township's 2016 Municipal Separate Storm Sewer (MS4) Progress Report (PDF) is available online.

Greater Lansing Regional Committee for Stormwater Management

To help facilitate a regional approach to stormwater management, the Township is also a member of the Greater Lansing Regional Committee for Stormwater Management, a guiding body comprised of Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System (MS4) communities within the Greater Lansing Region. The committee has been established to guide the implementation of the stormwater program for participating communities within the Grand River, the Red Cedar River and the Looking Glass River watersheds. Visit MyWatersheds.org to learn about upcoming events, find steps you can take to limit water pollution, and to get involved in managing our shared water resources!

Contact

If you have questions or comments regarding the Township's stormwater management plan, please contact Andrew Dymczyk by email or call 517-668-0270.

Environmental Contacts