Storm Sewer
About Storm Sewers in Fennville
The City maintains a separate network of storm sewers throughout the City to help handle precipitation and stormwater. We work closely with the Allegan County Drain Commissioner to ensure that water flows quickly from our community to the nearest waterways. If you notice a large puddle of water that is not draining, please let city staff know so that they can address the issue!
Our stormwater flows from the ground and joins either the Kalamazoo River Watershed or the Black Lake Watershed, depending on where in the City the water originates.
As our stormwater travels from the ground to the surface water deposits, we want to ensure it has a safe journey. Stormwater runoff is generated from rain and snowmelt that flows over land or impervious surfaces, such as paved roads, parking lots or building rooftops, that does not soak into the ground. Stormwater flows into drains that take it directly to nearby lakes, rivers and streams.
To learn more about stormwater and how it is managed at the national level, click here. For more information about municipal stormwater programs in Michigan, click here.
Our stormwater flows from the ground and joins either the Kalamazoo River Watershed or the Black Lake Watershed, depending on where in the City the water originates.
As our stormwater travels from the ground to the surface water deposits, we want to ensure it has a safe journey. Stormwater runoff is generated from rain and snowmelt that flows over land or impervious surfaces, such as paved roads, parking lots or building rooftops, that does not soak into the ground. Stormwater flows into drains that take it directly to nearby lakes, rivers and streams.
To learn more about stormwater and how it is managed at the national level, click here. For more information about municipal stormwater programs in Michigan, click here.
Stormwater is NOT treated before it reaches our waterways. Therefore it is extremely important to follow some simple best management practices (BMPs) in order to minimize the pollution that reaches our lakes, rivers and streams. The photos below illustrate how our actions can impact stormwater runoff.
- Wash your car at the car wash or on the grass (NOT on the driveway!)
- Keep stormdrains clear of debris and trash
- Use phosphorus free fertilizer (or don't use any)
- Shovel first, salt second (or not at all)
- Do not put anything in a storm drain (only rain in the drain)
Green infrastructure is the practice of infiltrating stormwater by use of natural systems in order to reestablish a healthy water flow. These systems allow for the infiltration of stormwater before it is released into conventional storm and sewer system, protecting our lakes, rivers, and streams from harmful pollutants. These practices lead to vital community features such as public parks, forests, rivers, wetlands and lakes. Using these natural systems to treat stormwater results in cleaner water, improved air quality, healthy wildlife habitats, and safe recreation sites. Urban areas are beginning to face new state and federal regulations to clean up rivers and reduce stormwater runoff. With green infrastructure these communities can create comprehensive plans, determine new development areas, and redevelop other areas in need and will improve local communities and attract good jobs. There are many different types of green infrastructure that range from simple rain barrels all the way to porous pavement. If you are interested in installing green infrastructure on your property. Contact City Staff if you'd like to know more about the types of green infrastructure we encourage.
*information about stormwater provided by the Lower Grand River Organization of Watersheds