Illicit Discharge
Illicit Discharge Detection and Elimination
Why Is It a Problem?
Illicit discharges are a problem because unlike wastewater which will be treated at a wastewater treatment facility before it is discharged back into waterways, storm water does not go to a treatment facility. As a result, as the storm water flows across developed and undeveloped land, it picks up pollutants and carries those pollutants to the nearest storm sewer or ditch. When these storm sewers and ditches outlet into creeks and waterways, the pollutants are also discharged into the creeks and waterways.
The regulations contained in 327 IAC 15-13 also require the county to prepare a storm sewer system map for the entire county. This map must show where storm sewers and ditches outlet into creeks and streams, which are know as “outfalls”. The county is then required to inspect these outfalls during dry weather conditions to determine if there are any illicit discharges coming out of the outfalls. In the event that illicit discharges are found, the county must then try to determine the source of the illicit discharge, and then attempt to implement an appropriate remedy to prevent further discharges.
Residents can also help by properly disposing of all automotive fluids, household wastes, etc. Never dump any of these materials into any ditches or storm sewers! In order to prevent improper dumping of these items, numerous recycling opportunities are provided throughout the county every year. For more information on the availability of recycling, please visit the Vanderburgh County Solid Waste District website by clicking here.