Overland Park is "Going Green"
The city has passed many ordinances and regulations to protect clean water and healthy streams. New initiatives are always underway:
Ordinances and Regulations
Stream Corridors
In 2002, the city adopted an ordinance preserving stream corridors in new development. The
ordinance protects
property
from stream bank erosion and preserves unique river habitats. The ordinance
was the work of the Watershed Development Task Force, an advisory group appointed
by the mayor.
Soil Erosion
In 2003, the city adopted an
ordinance requiring the use of erosion
and sediment control measures on
construction
sites. This
local ordinance reinforces state regulations.
Best Management Practices
In March 2003, the city's municipal stormwater
system formally submitted its applications for permit under the NPDES (National
Pollutant Discharge Elimination System) permit program. These federal
and state regulations require that we minimize pollution from our
storm sewers by implementing "best management practices" in each
of these areas:
- Public education;
- Public involvement;
- Illicit discharge detection and elimination;
- Erosion and sediment control from construction;
- Permanent pollution control from new development; and
- Good housekeeping in municipal operations.
The City Council approves the city's permit application each year. The application includes a specific outline of activities, deadlines and measurable goals (.pdf file).
For more information on NPDES permits, particularly the "Phase II" program for municipalities, visit the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and Kansas Division of Health and Environmental (KDHE) Web sites.
The majority of our neighboring cities as well as many others in Kansas and across the nation are regulated under the same permitting program.
Stormwater Pollution
In 2006, the city adopted a stormwater pollution ordinance that prohibits anything but rain water from going down storm drains. The passage of this ordinance will help the city meet requirements of the Clean Water Act and those enforced by federal and state agencies.
City Efforts – Beyond Requirements
Many city departments go above and beyond the requirements when it comes to keeping our water clean. Here are just a few examples of what is going on:
- The Public Works
Department uses native plants in many roadway projects.
- The Parks
and Recreation Department is mowing less often in areas close to stream banks. When plants
are allowed to grow, the roots dig deep into the ground, keeping the stream
bank from eroding.
- The Parks department is trying a new program
creating positive reinforcement for good behavior. When a citizens is seen
picking up waste left by their dog, a Parks representative will give
them a treat for the dog and information about keeping water
clean.
- Recently, the Parks department installed several new bag dispensers for pet owners to pick up their pet waste.
- The
golf courses plant several areas with native plants and follow best management
practices to reduce pesticide and fertilizer use.
- Staff members and volunteers spruced up a section of Tomahawk Creek near 138th and Switzer by planting 100 trees in 2007.
- Overland Park is a “green” community. Sustainability is not a new concept in Overland Park. For years we have initiated environmental projects.
Community Efforts
Volunteer opportunities are available for individuals who want to help preserve clean water. In April, a stream cleanup is organized and throughout the year, one could participate in storm drain stenciling.
We also can put you in contact with community groups that provide water quality education in schools or support residents who would like to become "stream team" monitors.
City staff members are available to speak to neighborhood associations, youth groups, schools or community organizations about what we can do to protect water quality. To find out more or to arrange a guest speaker, contact Lisa Cox, water quality specialist, at 913/895-6172.
Metrowide Efforts
The city is working with other metropolitan communities and the Mid-America Regional Council on a regional public education campaign called "Clean Water Healthy Life." This campaign emphasizes simple things that each of us can do in our own lives to improve water quality.
The seasonal campaign opened in April 2003 with a focus on lawn care. Since then, topics have included pet waste, stream dumping, used oil and car washing.
We also are working with the Johnson County Stormwater Management Program (SMAC) on county-wide efforts at public education.