A discharge at such levels scours the stream's banks, eroding sand and undercutting streamside vegetation and trees. In addition, hundreds of storm drains located throughout residential and commercial developments transport stormwater runoff directly to the stream. The combination of effluent from the sewage treatment plant and excessive stormwater impairs water quality downstream because silt and sediments block sunlight and increase turbidity.
A discharge at such levels ravages the stream's banks, wearing away sand and undermining streamside vegetation and trees. Furthermore, hundreds of storm drains situated throughout residential and commercial areas transport stormwater runoff directly to the stream. The combination of effluent from the sewage treatment facility and excessive stormwater impairs water quality downstream because silt and sediments block sunlight and increase turbidity.