The Town of Newbury is obligated by Federal Mandate to report on the effectiveness of the public information activities which form a part of our storm water discharge permit, referred to as the MS4 Permit.  In response to the Federal requirement, we are asking you to fill out this Questionnaire, and submit it using the information provided below.  Thank you for your assistance.

Storm water is any water running off a land surface before it reaches a natural water body. It occurs when the rate of precipitation is greater than it can infiltrate, or soak, into the soil. Runoff also occurs when the soil is saturated. Runoff remains on the surface and flows into streams, rivers, and eventually large bodies such as lakes or the ocean.

Movement of this storm water across the soil causes erosion. It can also carry and deposit untreated pollutants, such as sediment, nutrients and pesticides, into surface-water bodies

Impervious surfaces such as driveways, sidewalks, and streets block rainfall and other precipitation from infiltrating naturally into the ground, leading to even more storm water and potential pollutant runoff.

Rainwater harvesting offers a small-scale best management practice to reduce storm water runoff and the problems associated with it. By harvesting the rainfall and storing it, you can slowly release the water back into the soil, either through irrigation or direct application. The water then moves into groundwater table, providing a steady supply of water to local streams and rivers.

More Information:

- Regulated MS4 in Massachusetts Communities visit https://www.epa.gov/npdes-permits/regulated-ms4-massachusetts-communities 
- Massachusetts Small MS4 General Permit https://www.epa.gov/npdes-permits/massachusetts-small-ms4-general-permit
 
 
We appreciate your participation in this brief survey! You may do so either:

(1) online  https://www.townofnewbury.org/stormwater-management/links/stormwater-management-questionnaire                           

(2) Print/Fill out/Scan/Email to: stormwaternewbury@gmail.com

(3) Print/Fill out/Mail to:  Town of Newbury, Storm Water Management Committee, 12 Kent Way, Suite 101, Byfield, MA 01922