Stormwater Management at Rowan-Virtua SOM

What is stormwater?

Stormwater and its runoff is the water from rain or melted snow that flows over our lawns, streets, sidewalks, parking lots, etc. as it travels to a storm sewer to be released into our water sources (retention pond, stream, etc.)

What is Stormwater Pollution?

As stormwater travels, it picks up pollution (trash/litter, gas, motor oil, antifreeze, fertilizers, pesticides, and pet droppings). These pollutants are transported to our water sources via storm sewers, and because stormwater is not treated, this polluted stormwater has the potential to harm wildlife, destroy wildlife habitat, contaminate drinking water sources, and force the closing of beaches because of health threats to swimmers.

What is stormwater pollution prevention?

Stormwater Pollution Prevention at Rowan-Virtua SOM operates under the NJ Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP) Public Complex Stormwater General Permit. The Public Complex Stormwater General Permit authorizes the discharge of stormwater from large publicly owned complexes such as colleges, universities, prisons and hospital complexes.

In order to remain in compliance with this permit and the associated regulations, the School is required to maintain a Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan (SPPP) which ensures that the School is following best practices in its daily operations to keep pollutants out of our stormwater system. These best practices cover a variety of areas in Facilities such as construction, vehicle fueling, and outdoor storage of materials such as ice melting products or mulch, employee training, and more.

A copy of Rowan-Virtua SOM’s SPPP and Maps is available for download.

NJ Stormwater

Facts, resources and best practices

• N.J.A.C. 7:8 Stormwater Management
• N.J.A.C. 7:8 Stormwater Management FAQ
• New Jersey Stormwater Best Management Practices
• The Bureau of Nonpoint Pollution Control (part of the Division of Water Quality)
• NJDEP Cleanwater NJ
• New Jersey Stormwater Utilities Resource Center
• Guide to Best Practices