About Stormwater

The water we use inside our homes and businesses goes to a wastewater processing plant for purification before the water enters our streams. But water from roofs, streets, and outdoor spigots to wash cars goes directly into storm drains and is not treated before it enters streams, creeks, ditches, and lakes. Along the way, this stormwater can pick up contaminants and carry them into our waters. According to the EPA, stormwater pollution is the number one source of water pollution in the country. 

Our Stormwater Program

To minimize pollutants transported by stormwater runoff, the University of Colorado Denver | CU Anschutz Medical Campus implements programs in accordance with the Non-Standard Colorado Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System (MS4) Permit.

Program elements include:

• Education and Outreach
• Construction Site Erosion and Sediment Control
• Design Standards and Ongoing Maintenance
• Pollution Prevention and Good Housekeeping
• Illicit Discharge Detection and Elimination

For more information on the Stormwater Pollution Prevention Program, see the Stormwater at CU Anschutz page.