What We Do

Stormwater runoff is water from rain or melting snow that “runs off” across the land instead of seeping into the ground. This water flows to lower areas, making its way into streams, lakes and other waterways. On its way, runoff water can pick up and carry chemicals and sediment that pollute water. This affects both wildlife and water used for our drinking supply.

The City of Omaha has in place a comprehensive program to reduce stormwater pollution to Maximum Extent Practicable (MEP) levels. The program is also designed to eliminate prohibited non-stormwater discharges through a National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) municipal stormwater discharge permit. Areas addressed by this program include construction sites, industrial sites, illegal discharges and illicit connections, new development, and municipal operations. The program also includes a public education effort through a number of public meetings, demonstration projects, low impact development workshops, and an annual water festival.

The City also participates in a larger, regional effort with the Papillion Creek Watershed Partnership that covers a 402 square mile area including the metropolitan areas of Douglas County, Sarpy County, Gretna, La Vista, Papillion, Ralston, Bellevue, Boys Town, and Bennington. More information on the Papillion Creek Watershed Partnership.