Stormwater Information

Background

In 2018, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) issued the 2016 National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System (MS4) General Permit, also known as the NPDES MS4 General Permit. The Town of Tyngsborough filed a Notice of Intent and received authorization under a General Permit to discharge stormwater. Under this permit, the Town will be required to meet six minimum control measures. Therefore, over the permit term, the Town will be implementing new policies, procedures, and educational messages as it relates to stormwater.

Prevent Stormwater Contamination- Environmentally-Friendly Landscaping Practices

Stormwater pollution is the fastest-growing type of water pollution in the state. Any natural or man-made contamination, such as dumped leaves and grass, dog waste, or lawn fertilizers, that finds its way into our natural water sources (i.e. streams, ponds, rivers, groundwater) is stormwater pollution. Everyone can do their part to reduce pollutants for clean water and a healthier environment. Right now is a good time to think about what you can do with your landscaping to help improve ecosystems, and environmental practices, and reduce stormwater runoff from your yard. Consider speaking with your landscape company about their lawncare practices that can make your yard more environmentally-friendly.

  • Consider planting native groundcover plants or grass alternatives, rather than maintaining grass lawns
  • Use grass clippings and mulched leaves to naturally fertilize lawns and garden beds
  • adjust mower blades to 2 inches to 3 inches tall and keep the blades sharp
  • don't mow wet grass
  • If you have to water, water once a week and no more than 1 inch.
  • Pick up dog waste and properly dispose of it

View more lawn care tips.

Story Map

Visit our interactive story map outlining the state of stormwater management in Tyngsborough by clicking here.

Public Participation

In an effort to keep the public proactive with the Town's initiative of reducing stormwater pollution, the Town encourages the public to review and provide any feedback on the Town's Stormwater Management Program. Please submit any feedback or comments to stormwater@tyngsboroughma.gov.

Stormwater Documents

View the stormwater documents

Annual Reports

View Stormwater Annual Reports.