Stormwater Management

Stormwater runoff is created when rain falls on pavement, buildings, and other impervious surfaces that do not allow water to soak into the ground. In developed areas, we limit flooding by moving this runoff from our roads, parking lots, and neighborhoods through storm drains which discharge directly into rivers and streams. Since the discharge from separate storm sewer systems does not get processed at a treatment plant, any contaminants on the ground can "hitch a ride" with runoff and impact our shared surface waters. Pet waste, oil, leaves and dirty water from cleaning your car can enter storm drains and flow downstream where it harms aquatic habitats and makes water unsafe for swimming, canoeing and other water-related activities. The County takes steps to reduce this pollution to improve water quality and to meet State and Federal requirements.

Per these requirements, Eaton County must apply for a stormwater discharge permit every five years. A large part of that application consists of a description as to how the County will commit to and proceed with the development, implementation, and enforcement of practices to reduce the discharge of pollutants from its municipal separate storm sewer system to the maximum extent practicable. This documentation was formally designated as Eaton County’s Stormwater Management Plan, which is located below for public review and input.

Greater Lansing Regional Committee (GLRC) for Stormwater Management

To help facilitate a regional approach to stormwater management, the County is also a member of the Greater Lansing Regional Committee for Stormwater Management, a guiding body comprised of Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System (MS4) communities within the Greater Lansing Region. The committee has been established to guide the implementation of the stormwater program for participating communities within the Grand River, the Red Cedar River and the Looking Glass River watersheds. Email My Watersheds to learn about upcoming events, find steps you can take to limit water pollution, and to get involved in managing our shared water resources!

If you have questions or comments regarding the County’s stormwater management plan, please email Eric Deibel at the Eaton County Drain Commission or call 517-543-3809.

Visit the Greater Lansing Regional Committee Stormwater Management Website Here

Illicit Discharge

An illicit discharge is defined as any discharge to the municipal separate storm sewer system that is not composed entirely of stormwater, except for discharges allowed under an NPDES permit or waters used for firefighting operations. Many of these non-stormwater discharges occur due to illegal connections to the storm drain system from commercial, residential, and other establishments.

Report Illegal Dumping of Chemicals in a Catchbasin or Drain

Call 517-543-3193 or DEQ Emergency Response Hotline 800-292-4706

Household Hazardous Waste Recycling

When not stored, used, or disposed of properly, household hazardous waste pollutes our waters. Household cleaners, paints, automotive fluids and more should be recycled at a household hazardous waste event or designated collection facility. Check out these links to learn more about are collection events and resources to help you properly dispose of household materials.

Eaton County Resources

GLRC Resources