Illicit Discharge
What is an illicit discharge?
An illicit discharge is defined by the United States Environmental Protection Agency as, “Any discharge into a separate storm sewer system that is not composed entirely of storm water.” Typically, illicit discharges enter a storm sewer system either through direct, illegal connections; or indirectly from failed sanitary sewer conveyances, spills collected by storm drains, or from contaminants dumped directly into a storm drain inlet.
Wood County's Illicit Discharge Detection and Elimination Resolution
If you see something, say something:
If you see odd discharges (especially during dry weather) entering a storm drain, ditch, creek, or other waterway, please let us know! Signs of an illicit discharge can include discoloration, rainbow sheen on the surface of the water, suds, odor, staining, or anything else out of the ordinary.
Who do you call?
- During business hours, call the Wood County Engineer’s Office at (419) 354-9060.
- After hours, call the Wood County Sheriff’s Office, non-emergency at (419) 354-9001.
Illegal Dumping
Although it may not appear as an obvious threat to our environment, inappropriately handled yard waste can cause big issues. When organic material is stockpiled, it begins to decompose and creates nutrient-rich compost. This is great for our gardens, but not for our water. When grass clippings and leaves are blown into the curb or piled along our ditches and waterways they can introduce excess nutrients into our streams. These excess nutrients are the food of choice for algae blooms.
Who do you call?
- During business hours, call the Wood County Engineer’s Office at (419) 354-9060.
- After hours, call the Wood County Sheriff’s Office, non-emergency at (419) 354-9001.