Town of Banff

Storm Water

In Banff, like most other municipalities, storm water is not treated.  Almost everything that goes into a storm drain flows directly into the Bow River.

Storm Water Pollution

Water from storm drains is a leading cause of river pollution.  Pollution ends up in the storm sewer system in two ways:

• In residential and commercial areas, rainwater travels over paved areas and into gutters and drains, collecting pollutants as it moves. This is called "storm water" or "storm water runoff." Even small amounts of pollutants that accumulate on roads, parking lots, and sidewalks can be transported into nearby streams and rivers.

•  People purposely or inadvertently wash pollutants into the storm drains. The 5 most common household hazardous wastes found in storm water are:

• automotive fluids (e.g. anti-freeze, brake fluid)
• all types of paints and stains
• solvents (e.g. paint thinner)
• fertilizers and pesticides (e.g. weed killer, pest spray)
• cleaners (e.g. oven cleaner, drain cleaners)

7 Things You Can Do to Minimize Storm Water Pollution:

1. Never pour hazardous household waste materials onto sidewalks or into storm drains.
2. Choose non-toxic household cleaners.
3. Minimize or eliminate fertiliser use.  Use eco-friendly methods of weed control.
4. Pick up pet waste.
5. Never pour motor oil on the ground or down storm drains.
6. Avoid washing your vehicle in the driveway.  If you must wash your car in your driveway, avoid toxic cleaners and detergents.
7. Avoid using "de-icers" in the winter; try to physically remove snow and ice from sidewalk and driveways.