The EPA believes that the public can provide valuable input and assistance to a regulated Phase II MS4's municipal stormwater management program and suggests that the public be given opportunities to play an active role in both the development and implementation of the program. An active and involved community is crucial to the success of a stormwater management program because it allows for:
- Broader Public Support
- Shorter Implementation Schedules
- A Broader Base of Expertise and Economic Benefits
- A Conduit to Other Programs
Volunteer Opportunities
This measure must include a procedure for giving the public an opportunity to actually participate in both the development and implementation of a stormwater program.
Volunteer groups - such as schools, clubs or community organizations - are encouraged to "adopt a creek". With the aid of City staff, who can provide maps and technical information, volunteers can participate in clean up projects or environmental field trips that can help insure the environmental well being of our local waters. For more information, e-mail the Stormwater Manager or call 423-975-2700.
Storm Drain Marking Program
The City has implemented a volunteer program in which citizens can mark storm drains with a marker that reads “No Dumping, Drains to Stream”, as well as distribute informational material in an effort to raise citizen awareness in our neighborhoods. For more information, e-mail the Operations Manager or call 423-975-2700.