Stormwater Management
Marcy Gulch sculpted concrete drop
Stormwater management is an important component of the Metro District’s public works services. Stormwater is collected through pipe systems from streets and then conveyed through the open space drainage ways. The drainage ways provide flood control and water quality enhancement of stormwater. These corridors are home to wildlife and are the backbone of our open space trail system. In light of these multiple uses, the corridors must be protected from the effects of increased storm flows, erosion and other impacts of urbanization. The Metro District’s Public Works staff takes a proactive approach to stormwater management by balancing these various demands.
The Metro District has submitted the new permit with the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE). The first five-year permit expired at the end of 2007 and was renewed for five years in 2008. The permit outlines the requirements that the Metro District is obligated to fulfill to comply with Phase 2 of the Clean Water Act. Copies of the permit are available for review in the Metro District Public Works department.
Stormwater Management Frequently Asked Questions
Who is responsible for stormwater facilities in Highlands Ranch?
The Metro District cooperates with Douglas County and the Urban Drainage and Flood Control District (UDFCD) to build and manage stormwater facilities in the community. The Metro District is responsible for drainage in the open space. Douglas County is responsible for drainage on the streets and in the storm sewer system.
What is stormwater?
Stormwater is considered to be runoff from streets and lots as the result of precipitation events, including snowstorms. This runoff is conveyed to the drainageways in the natural open space areas through a series of pipes and inlets which are considered the storm sewer system. The quantity and quality of the runoff impacts the drainageways.
How are wetlands issues handled?
The Metro District has a wetlands management program. The Metro District’s Public Works staff coordinates all wetlands activities with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, the Colorado Division of Wildlife, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.
What can I do to keep our stormwater clean?
Since Highlands Ranch is primarily an urban community, most of the stormwater runoff is from residential area. To keep our stormwater clean, excess fertilizer, grass clippings and other organic materials should be cleaned from the street on a regular basis. Litter is the primary pollutant in our stormwater, so please use proper receptacles for any trash.
Is the stormwater treated?
No, the stormwater runoff goes directly to the drainageways in the Metro District open spaces.
Facebook
Twitter
RSS Feed