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Stormwater runoff is water from rain or melted snow that “runs off” the land instead of seeping into the ground. In urban areas, there is often an increased amount of stormwater runoff due to the amount of impervious surfaces (streets, parking lots, driveways, etc.) that prevent stormwater from naturally soaking into the ground.
As it flows over land stormwater can pick up debris, chemicals, dirt, animal wastes, and other pollutants. These contaminants are then transported with the stormwater through the municipal separate storm sewer system (MS4) into local streams and rivers. Polluted water creates numerous costs to both the public and to wildlife. As in most communities, the catch basins and inlets located throughout the Borough of Middletown are connected to an MS4 which transports, but does not treat stormwater. Therefore, anything that enters the storm sewer system is discharged untreated into the Swatara Creek or Susquehanna River.
Yes, the federal Clean Water Act, National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) permit program requires communities across the country to take steps to reduce polluted stormwater runoff. The Middletown MS4 permit outlines steps the Borough must take to improve the water quality within the Borough as well as for those living downstream.
Illicit Discharge Detection and Elimination (IDDE) is a required component of the Borough’s Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System (MS4) permit issued by the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection (PADEP). The purpose of the IDDE program is to prevent pollutants from entering the storm sewer system and local waterways.
An illicit discharge is any discharge to the Borough’s storm sewer system that is not composed entirely of stormwater, except for certain allowable discharges identified by PADEP.
Storm drains convey stormwater directly to local streams without treatment. Improper discharges can harm water quality, aquatic life, and public health.
If you observe a possible illicit discharge or suspicious activity, please report it as soon as possible.
During normal business hours: Contact Matt Miller at the Borough at 717-902-0706.
After hours, weekends, or emergencies: Call the Police Department non-emergency number at 717-902-0627 or 911 for emergencies.
When reporting, please include the location, time observed, and a brief description of the issue.
Prompt reporting helps protect local streams, maintain regulatory compliance, and allows the Borough to respond quickly to spills or illegal dumping.
