Stormwater
Stormwater runoff is generated from precipitation as it flows over surfaces picking up pollutants along the way and depositing them in our lakes and streams. The majority of these pollutants come from urbanized areas that operate municipal separate storm sewer systems (MS4’s) as well as from construction and industrial activities. To prevent stormwater from negatively impacting our health and valuable natural resources, stormwater discharges are regulated by Federal, State, and Local governments. The University of Kentucky’s Main Lexington Campus is considered a small Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System (sMS4) and, as a result, is permitted by Kentucky’s Department for Environmental Protection to discharge stormwater to waters of the Commonwealth. UK’s Environmental Quality Management Department is responsible for ensuring that the University complies with the requirements of this permit. Detailed information about UK’s Stormwater Management program, including ways in which you can assist the University in protecting our streams can be found on the following pages.
Detailed information about the KPDES sMS4 General Permit and how the University complies with its requirements.
Find out more about stormwater including what it is, why it matters, and what you can do to protect it.
Find out more about projects on campus and what we’re doing to improve our stormwater.
Information for educators and students including lesson plans, tours, relevant classes, and more.
Wondering how you can help protect stormwater at UK? Learn more about volunteer opportunities and special events.
Opportunities for new and current employees to learn about stormwater and how stormwater should be protected while you work.
Typically only clean rain water is allowed down storm drains. Learn more about what an illicit discharge is, where they have occurred on campus, and how to identify and report one.
Learn more about current campus projects, including how stormwater is being protected, and what contractors need to know about UK’s Construction Stormwater Requirements.
Once construction is complete, stormwater must be managed over the life of the property’s use. Find out more about the controls being used on campus to manage stormwater quantity and quality.
Explore the University’s stormwater system in detail with our interactive map. Includes watershed, outfall, BMP information, and more.