Overland Park has more than 70 miles of natural streams. The water running through
these streams is important to
our residents as well as neighbors downstream.
Clean water is critical for drinking, irrigation, agriculture, industry, fishing and recreation. It is essential to the balance of natural ecosystems, upon which all life depends. Residents, businesses, scientists and government agencies across the nation are working to protect water quality and stream integrity.
Stormwater
Pollution from urban stormwater is a key concern. In urban areas, water runoff from rain or snow picks up soil, pet waste, salt, pesticides, fertilizers, oils, grease, litter and other pollutants. This stormwater, and the pollution it carries, generally runs through pipes and ditches directly into creeks without treatment.
The expansion of pavement, buildings and compacted lawns decreases the amount of water that can soak into the ground or be used and released back into the atmosphere by plants. Water running over pavement and buildings in the summer picks up heat and is warmer than normal stream flows. Changes in the water balance and temperature disrupt natural ecosystems.
In addition to passing a stormwater pollution ordinance in 2006 and a stormwater treatment ordinance in 2007, the city is initiating a number of programs to protect water quality and stream integrity: