By Leann Sato, Nebraska Extension Master Gardener
Are you an accidental polluter? The storm sewer system, “MS4” for short, routes runoff from rooftops, sidewalks, and streets to the North Platte River without treatment. That means pollutants swept in the flow of runoff end up contaminating the area’s rivers, lakes, and ponds. Protect water quality with proper disposal of trash, pet waste, and yard waste; careful application of fertilizers or pesticides, and vehicle maintenance to prevent the “accidental” pollution of waterways.