Reporting Pollution- How To Take Action!
Stormwater Runoff
Illegal Trash Dumps
Stormwater Runoff
Stormwater runoff occurs when precipitation amounts exceeds the absorbtion capacity of the ground. The resulting runoff flows downhill to the nearest body of water, carrying silt, sediment, manure, and any chemicals such as oil and fertilizers. This results in a pollution event.
First Action- Take Pictures, then-
Call your Conservation District!
Monroe County Conservation District- (570) 629-3060
Stream Erosion
Illegal Trash Dumps
Stormwater Runoff
Heavy rains/ heavy and fast snow melts can cause catastrophic flooding which in turn can rapidly erode stream banks. This can cause damage to roads, structures, and property to the extent that roads can become impassible and structures unstable and not safe for habitation. Permanent changes to the stream bed are also possible.
First Action- Do not endanger yourself!
Call Your Conservation District!
Monroe County Conservation District- (570) 629-3060
Chemical Spills
Illegal Trash Dumps
Illegal Trash Dumps
Spills can be several types- hazardous and non- hazardous, liquid or solid. All are bad for our streams. Liquids are much harder to contain and often worse. Included are fuel oils, sewage sludge, and other liquid chemicals. Solids can be anything- truck cargoes, illegal contaminated soil dumps, and more. Pictured here is a nurdle spill in Pocono Creek. Nurdles are lentil sized beads of plastic that are melted into plastic items. These nurdles are impossible to really clean up.
First Action- Take Pictures, then-
Call Your Conservation District!
Monroe County Conservation District- (570) 629-3060
Illegal Trash Dumps
Illegal Trash Dumps
Illegal Trash Dumps
Illegal trash dumps are, sadly, too common in our area. Most municipalities do not provide household trash pickup. leaving homeowners on their own to hire a collection service. If they cannot afford that, they simply dump their trash where ever they think it won't be discovered. All too often, that means our streams and wetlands. Or a deserted section of road with a handy pull over spot.
First Action- take pictures, then call Monroe County Waste Authority at (570) 643-6100. You can file a written report by clicking on the button-.