This program is required by the Massachusetts Executive Office of Environmental Affairs and the US Environmental Protection Agency.  The program consists of public education and outreach, public involvement and participation, illicit discharge detection and elimination, construction site stormwater runoff control, post construction stormwater management, and pollution prevention.

Nonpoint source pollution & stormwater runoff = pollution is caused by rainfall or snowmelt moving over and through the ground. The runoff collects and carries natural and man-made pollutants which are deposited into wetlands and coastal waters. Below is a list of ways we all can help reduce nonpoint source pollution and improve our rivers, wetlands and coastal waters.

Never dump anything into a storm drain

Dispose of hazardous waste annually during our hazardous waste collection day

Direct roof drains away from bare surfaces and bare soil

Regularly inspect and pump your septic system

Use fertilizers sparingly

Pick up after your pets

Clean up spills of vehicle fluids & household chemicals

Replant disturbed soil as soon as possible

Regularly maintain your automobile to prevent fluid leaks

If you wash your car a t home use low phosphate detergents

Illicit discharge = any release (via municipal separate storm system) of contaminated water or non-stormwater discharge that contributes pollutants to receiving waters. Some examples of illicit discharge are listed below.

Laundry wastewater

Improper disposal of automobile & household products

Overflow from septic tanks & car wash wastewater

Direct septic connections into storm drains system

Sanitary wastewater from crushed or collapsed pipes or surcharges

The Salisbury Department of Public Works will be conducting inspections of stormwater outfalls throughout the town. If pollutants or irregular flows are detected the system will be traced back to locate the illicit discharge. Any discharge deemed a threat to public health or public safety is automatically in violation and is thus subject to a removal order.

For more information regarding Phase II Stormwater Management Program contact The Department of Public Works at 978-462-7611

Click on the links below for helpful hints and answers to frequently asked stormwater questions.