EPA Failing to Control Urban Runoff

The Environmental Protection Agency has not done enough to control pollution from stormwater runoff in urban areas, according to a report from the National Academy of Sciences.

1 minute read

October 20, 2008, 6:00 AM PDT

By Nate Berg

"Stormwater runoff is the toxic brew of oil, fertilizers and trash picked up by rain and snowmelt as the water flows over parking lots, roofs and subdivisions."

"The report said responsibility for managing stormwater must shift from developers to local governments, and permits should be issued on the boundaries of a watershed, rather than state borders. Such a change probably would require a new law and take between five years to 10 years, the report said."

"While urban areas cover only 3 percent of the U.S., it is estimated that their runoff is the primary source of pollution in 13 percent of rivers, 18 percent of lakes and 32 percent of estuaries."

FULL STORY: EPA faulted on waterway pollution from sprawl

Thursday, October 16, 2008 in Associated Press

Environment United States Water Pollution Stormwater EPA Urban Runoff View More

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