Stormwater protection and local resources

Stormwater is any precipitation that comes from rain, snow and ice melt, and stormwater runoff results from the water that does not infiltrate into the ground, evaporate or recharge rivers and lakes. Stormwater can flow off building rooftops, driveways, lawns, streets, parking lots, construction sites and industrial storage yards. There is a stormwater system in place consisting of storm drains, pipes and outfalls that are designed to carry rainwater away to prevent flooding. As it flows through the storm drain, stormwater picks up pollutants, trash and debris. Contaminated stormwater is the most significant contributor of pollutants to Wisconsin's urban waters today. These types of pollutants can harm fish and wildlife populations, kill native vegetation, foul drinking water supplies and make recreational areas unsafe and unpleasant. It is in the interest of every community to manage its stormwater runoff to protect its residents' health, welfare and safety and preserve the natural resources. Learn more here.

A member of the stormwater partnership

Sun Prairie is a member of the Madison Area Municipal Storm Water Partnership (MAMSWaP). This collective shares an individual permit under the Wisconsin Pollutant Discharge Elimination (WPDES) program. The City of Sun Prairie and 22 other local municipalities in central Dane County are jointly permitted by WDNR to discharge stormwater to the waters of the state through a stormwater permit, also known as an MS4.

In compliance with the provisions of Chapter 283, Wisconsin Statutes, and Chapters NR 151 and 216, Wisconsin Administrative Code, municipalities in Wisconsin must apply for a stormwater permit to discharge stormwater through a separate storm sewer system into the state's waters. The permit requires that municipalities submit to WisDNR an annual report of activities aimed at complying with the permit's requirements.

The goal of the municipal stormwater discharge permit program is to reduce adverse impacts to water quality in our lakes and streams from urban sources of stormwater runoff.

Sun Prairie's stormwater management program

In order to reduce pollutants from entering our waterways, the city is improving our stormwater management plan annually. The program is mandated by the federal government and is funded by a utility fee levied on citizens ($11.70 per month) and businesses (based on impervious area).

Keeping pollutants out of our waterways

You probably do not realize it, but you live on "waterfront property." In fact, most everyone in Sun Prairie lives on a lake or stream when it comes to stormwater runoff. That is because the distance between your yard and the water's edge is as close as the nearest storm drain or ditch.