Sewer (wastewater) systems carry wastewater from bathrooms, sinks, kitchens, and other plumbing connections to a wastewater treatment plant. In Livermore, sewer mains transport wastewater to the Livermore Water Reclamation Plant, where it is treated and discharged into the San Francisco Bay or used locally as recycled water.

Storm drain systems are designed to capture rainfall runoff and other drainage to prevent flooding. The runoff is carried to the nearest local waterway without any treatment. Since stormwater is untreated, pollutants like automobile fluids, solvents, pesticides, paint, litter, and sediment may be washed into local waterways as well. Since Livermore’s creeks flow to the San Francisco Bay, these substances can contribute to fish consumption advisories, beach closures, and the loss of aquatic habitat productivity. Learn more about Livermore’s watersheds.

Flood control channels and creeks within Livermore are managed by multiple agencies, though the majority are managed by the City of Livermore and Zone 7 Water Agency.

Over 50% of all pollutants entering the San Francisco Bay come from storm drain systems. To reduce this percentage, the San Francisco Bay Regional Water Quality Control Board requires all San Francisco Bay Area cities and counties to have stormwater management programs to minimize pollution.

City of Livermore Water Resources Division staff inspect industrial and commercial facilities to identify illegal discharges and conditions that could allow pollutants to enter storm drains. Staff also educates businesses about best management practices to reduce stormwater pollution, responds to reports of spills or dumping into storm drains, and takes enforcement action when regulations are not followed.

Staff also educates the public about the importance of reducing stormwater pollution by leading educational programs for elementary school students and attending local special events. The Division began a volunteer Adopt a Creek Spot program in 2012, which has removed tens of thousands of gallons of litter from Livermore’s creeks.

Along with taking steps locally to reduce stormwater pollution, the City of Livermore is also involved with managing stormwater issues on the County level. In 1991, the City of Livermore joined 15 other government agencies to form the Alameda Countywide Clean Water Program, which educates the public on how to keep businesses and homes from contributing to stormwater pollution. It also coordinates its activities with other pollution prevention programs such as wastewater treatment plants, hazardous waste disposal, and water recycling.

There are many ways Livermore residents can help the Water Resources Division reduce stormwater pollution in our community. Learn more about what you can do.