Stormwater Toolbox Newsletter Archive

Welcome to the Stormwater Toolbox Newsletter Archive. You will find each Newsletter arranged chronologically below along with a general description of the topics contained in each newsletter.

(Return to the Stormwater Management Home Page)

2023

January - In this month's newsletter, we refresh ourselves on what is an MS4 and what an MS4 does. The identification of communities MS4s is to help reduce water pollution on our nation's waterways through the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System program. 
February - This month's Stormwater Toolbox Newsletter was replaced with the 2022 Stormwater Annual Report! The annual report contains information on the river, rainfall, project highlights, and program numbers for 2022. We also highlight what is to come in the year 2023! (en español)
March - This month's newsletter provides a recap of the City's Flood Awareness public meeting, a summary of World Water Day 2023, and what you can do to help reduce stormwater pollution. 
April - This month's newsletter explains the Crossing Drainage Improvement etc. and an explanation between Retention and Detention Stormwater Basins. 
May - This month's newsletter talks about how the waterways and water bodies of Elkhart County drain 99% of the land area and touches on how hard surface areas within Elkhart County continue to grow on average by 1 square mile a year. A new series on the origin of words used to describe waterways begins this month with the first word being "River".
June - This month's newsletter focuses on how native plants can withstand drought conditions, a call for photographs of local waterways for the next Stormwater Calendar, and the next installment in the "Origin of Words for Waterways" series: "Creek". 
July - This month's newsletter focuses on the importance of Facility Inspections, a call for photographers for the next Stormwater Calendar, August is National Water Quality Month, and the next installment in the "Origin of Words for Waterways" series: "Brook".
August - This month's newsletter focuses on updates to standard operating procedures to comply with the City's  MS4 general permit, why freshwater mussels play a key role in water quality, and the next installment in the "Origin of Words for Waterways" series: "Stream".
September - This month's newsletter draws attention to how stormwater treatment units capture pollutants before they reach our local waterways. The origin of "waterway/watercourse" is explored in this month's installment of the "Origin of Words for Waterways" series. 
October - This month's newsletter celebrates the New Water Year and why knowing how much water falls across an area is essential. It also pulls back the history of the word "Hydrology" and draws attention to the annual value of water: $58 Trillion!
November - This month's newsletter offers a message of thanksgiving and celebrates November 16 as National Stormwater Day. It also provides a name for the smell in the air after a rainstorm in the summertime and gives a warning for how to deal with fats, oils, and grease (F.O.G.) during the holiday season. 
December - This month's newsletter focuses on City employee stormwater education and training, proper salt application for Winter, and the release of the 2024-2025 Stormwater Calendar

2022

January - The Stormwater Department has created its first-ever public-facing Annual Report! Find out what the staff has been up to over the last year, check in on the state of our waterways, learn about the role of partnerships in improving water quality, and more (en español).
February - In celebration of Black History Month, explore the story of Carl Stokes--a clean water hero. Also, this issue takes a look at flooding in February four years ago during Goshen's historic 2018 flood. Visit the flood zone page to find information about how the City is preparing Goshen to be more flood-resilient.
March - This issue learn about the benefits of tree canopy for stormwater management and how our river gauge helps support flood resiliency and preparedness.
April - Put Goshen Water Fest on your summer calendar for June 11! Also, this issue takes a look back at Goshen's flood history for this month's flood resilience spotlight.
June/July - We had a great time at Goshen Water Fest this June! In this issue find the recap and take a look at flood data used by city staff and available to the public to assess community flood risks.
August - In this month's newsletter we kick off a series on the Minimum Control Measures (MCMs) that make up the City's stormwater programming requirements.
September - In this month's newsletter learn about stormwater treatment units and why they are an integral part of protecting our local waterways. This month's MCM Tour focus is on illicit discharge detection and elimination. Illicit discharges are anything other than rain down a storm drain. 
October - In this month's newsletter learn about how restocking the Elkhart River with Walleye is great for our ecosystem. This month's MCM Tour focuses on MCM 4: construction site stormwater runoff. Construction site stormwater runoff is the stormwater leaving an active construction site that may contain pollutants such as sediment. 
November - In this month's newsletter, we give thanks for all the work Goshen's employees do to keep our local waterways clean. This month's MCM Tour focuses on MCM 5: post-construction stormwater runoff. Post-construction stormwater runoff management is the long-term maintenance of stormwater measures. 
December - In this month's newsletter, we take a look at what stormwater laws consist of. This month's MCM tour focuses on MCM 6: pollution prevention and good housekeeping. Pollution prevention and good housekeeping is the altering of our own actions to help ensure a reduction in the amount of pollution. 

2021

January - A new year is upon us and so is an updated Stormwater Newsletter brought to you by the Goshen Stormwater and Environmental Resilience Departments. In this inaugural issue are two new sections called “Pollutant Challenge” and “Impact Your World” which focus on the impact of salt pollution on our local plants and waterways and the steps each of us can take to prevent it from becoming a stormwater pollutant.
February - This month's Newsletter explores two important nature-based topics. The Stormwater Toolbox looks at the important role Goshen's wetlands play in our natural landscape, and why these wetlands are worth preserving (map of Goshen's wetlands). The Impact Your World section profiles a Goshen resident who has worked for over a decade to create a more nature-focused backyard and offers guidance on how you can get started creating a diverse wildlife habitat in your own yard.
March - The Stormwater Department will be spending a lot of time out in Goshen's waterways this spring doing a stormwater outfall survey, find out why in this month's Stormwater Toolbox Newsletter. Also in this month's edition, learn about plastic and microplastic pollution and some steps you can take to help solve this issue! Want to know even more about plastics in Goshen's waterways? Check out this fact sheet.
April - In this month's issue of the Stormwater Newsletter, find out about upcoming summer educational opportunities to increase your stormwater and place-based knowledge. Also, learn how spring vehicle maintenance is related to clean water!  
May - Warmer weather means lawns are growing in full force; find out how you can prevent stormwater nutrient pollution from your grass clippings in this month's Stormwater Toolbox Newsletter. Also in this edition, prepare for cicada impacts to stormwater conveyance systems this summer!
June - In this month's Stormwater Toolbox Newsletter, reflect on the ways hard surfaces have changed how stormwater moves across a landscape. And check out how you can stop detergents from entering our waterways for this issue's "Pollutant Challenge."
July - In this month's issue of the Stormwater Toolbox Newsletter, find your watershed address, explore recent news on Lake Michigan and climate change, and learn how to reduce fertilizer pollution in our waterways!
August - The August Stormwater Toolbox Newsletter highlights the work of our very own Street Department in protecting water quality and reducing flood potential. Also in this issue, take a look at how sediment pollution can impact fish and find out ways we can reduce urban sources of sediment in our waterways!
September - Goshen’s Water and Sewer Department performs many stormwater services. Find out how they help prevent stormwater pollution and drainage problems in our Stormwater Toolbox Newsletter. Also, see how mulching or composting leaves in your yard benefits water quality!
October - Explore the ways stormwater and wastewater are interconnected in Goshen--both with the same goal of promoting water quality. Also in this Newsletter, learn why October is a good month to think about the impacts of trash on our waterways.
November - In this month's issue of the Stormwater Newsletter, see how all our Department highlights come together to protect water quality and conserve energy. As we approach the Holidays, protect water quality by considering how to properly dispose of all the fat, oil, and grease (FOGs) waste from your favorite holiday foods. 
December - New year, new things for the Stormwater Department! In this month’s issue, find out about new Indiana Stormwater General Permits released this month and what they mean for Goshen in 2022. Also looking to 2022, pick up your Stormwater Calendar today!

2020

January - In this month's Newsletter read about how snow is stormwater too and helpful tips to take to prevent stormwater pollution during the winter months. Additionally, read about illicit discharges, how to identify them, and how and to whom to report one if you see it. Remember, preventing stormwater pollution begins with each of us.
February to October - No Newsletter
November - In this month's Newsletter read about why “Only Rain Down a Storm Drain” is a common phrase used when talking about stormwater runoff, to read about a holiday FOG warning, the 23^rd America Recycles Day on November 15^th, and a welcome to Mattie Lehman, Goshen’s new Stormwater Specialist.
December - In this month's Newsletter read about a fish success story after dam removal in the City of Elkhart; new construction and stormwater general permits released for public comment by the State; a study showing the North Branch of the Elkhart River is an incredibly resilient, stable, and healthy river system; and more. 

2019

January - In this month's Newsletter find out the answer to the questions: What is an MS4 and why is it important? You can also read on how 2018 was one of the wettest years on record and what that means for stormwater. If you are interested in a bit more information on the amount of precipitation that fell during 2018 check out a short (1 minute) YouTube video. 
February - In this month's Newsletter you will read about two pieces of bipartisan legislation that have become law in the last two months and will help improve water quality throughout the United States. Additionally, you will read about how stormwater pollution does not go away but goes somewhere. Finally, you will find out about illicit discharges that occurred in the City of Goshen during 2018 and what to do if you see one. 
March - In this month's Newsletter you will read about water: 1) The Sixth Great Lake is the groundwater underneath the Great Lakes Watershed, 2) World Water Day was on March 22nd with the theme of “Water for All”, 3) Adopt-A-Storm Drain and help keep our waterways clean, and 4) help slow down stormwater runoff by installing a rain barrel and/or planting a rain garden. Water is key to life and this month people are encouraged to consider the statement “All for water and water for all!”
April - In this month's Newsletter you will read about soil stabilization and why the use of temporary mulch is an important part of the stabilization process. You can also read about microplastics in groundwater and the air. Finally, if you like to go to the movies at Linway Cinema make sure you arrive early to check out the Stormwater PSA.
May - In this month's Newsletter you have the chance to read A Tale of Two Floods, a story about the two recent floods to affect the City of Goshen. This tale talks about how climate change is increasing the amount of rain falling in Indiana and what impacts it could have on our area, like more flooding and poorer water quality due to polluted stormwater runoff. The information comes from research conducted by scientists and professionals associated with the Indiana Climate Change Impacts Assessment program.
June - In this month's Newsletter read about two reminders on how to prevent pollution when fueling a vehicle and when working near a storm drain. You can also see close-up pictures of the ten storm drain art murals that were completed over the last few weeks. Check out bit.ly/SDArtMap for more information.
July - In this month’s Newsletter read about how Indiana’s stormwater regulations have only changed once since August 2003 and yet they are a way to keep America the Beautiful, beautiful. Learn about the beautiful and beastly sides of fireworks. Lastly, read about the 11 times the Elkhart River has reached minor flood stage since October 2007, and how you can use a free, online tool called My RainReady, to help determine the potential flooding risks for your property.
August - In this month's Newsletter read about why it is important for City employees (anyone actually) to do routine inspections of areas and equipment exposed to stormwater to help reduce stormwater pollution and about the growing threat of urban flooding outside of the typical flood risk areas.
September - In this month's Newsletter read about how City departments and staff have helped to identify, report, and in some instances cleanup illicit discharge incidents to the City's storm sewer system. The back page summarizes three stormwater-related news stories that will or continue to have a big impact on our environment.
October - In this month's Newsletter help celebrate the 2020 Water New Year, read up on five tips to help prevent stormwater pollution this fall, and lastly, imagine what it would be like if when you turned on the tap no water came out. 
November - In this month's Newsletter, the Stormwater Department once again asks for help in keeping storm drains clear of leaves and encourages folks to adopt a storm drain near their home or business. You can also read about a recent IDEM audit of a portion of Goshen's stormwater program, why FOGs are a concern during the holidays and year-round, and finally about the importance of conducting site inspections until a Notice of Termination application is accepted by the Elkhart County SWCD. 
December - Give the gift of clean water this holiday season and find out how by reading this month's Newsletter. You can also read about how grapes, apples, dandelion leaves, and other agricultural wastes are being used for deicing practices, and why freshwater mussels are so important to freshwater ecosystems.

2018

January - Find out the reason behind the Stormwater Toolbox Newsletter and about an upcoming Stormwater Survey that will help direct the Stormwater Department's educational focus for 2018. You will also learn which City employee received the Stormwater Hunter of the Year award.
February - This month's Stormwater Toolbox Newsletter points readers towards the thought that storm drains are the mouths of the Elkhart River and other local waterways. Additionally, it talks about what's in stormwater runoff and how you only had to look to the recent floodwaters to see the answer. Due to the historic flooding, the Stormwater Survey will be released in an upcoming edition of the Stormwater Toolbox Newsletter.
March - In this month's Stormwater Toolbox Newsletter, the Goshen Stormwater Department is requesting your help on where our educational efforts should be focused this year. Please take our Survey and leave some feedback while you are there. Additionally, you can learn a bit more about February’s historic flood event and how to help slow down stormwater runoff during future rain events. 
April - In this month's Stormwater Toolbox Newsletter you can read about steps to take if you or your employees work outside in order to keep stormwater runoff clean. These same steps can be followed where you live as well. Additionally, this month's Newsletter touches on one of the more visible stormwater pollutants: Trash. Find out some quick ways you can help to keep our local community clean by picking up any trash you see.
May - No Stormwater Toolbox Newsletter this month.
June - In this month's Stormwater Toolbox Newsletter you can read about the 2018 Stormwater Survey results, the Stormwater Rule of Thumb, why plastic pollution is a major water quality issue today, and how, here in Goshen, we are connected to the world's oceans.
July - In this month's Stormwater Toolbox Newsletter you can read about the best practices to use during power washing, why chlorinated water from pools cannot be discharged to storm drains, and a new incentive program being offered by the Greater Elkhart County Stormwater Partnership to support local school field trips.
August - In this month's Stormwater Toolbox Newsletter you can read about a national report card on the implementation of MS4 programs in Indiana and 13 other states. Additionally, you can read about plastic pollution and its impact on climate change and how plastic debris moves throughout the Great Lakes.
September - In this month's Stormwater Toolbox Newsletter you will read about stormwater pollution prevention reminders for the job site. Additionally, October 1st is the beginning of the water year, so Happy New Water Year! Finally, the new Stormwater Education Field Trip Incentive program is highlighted and if you know of any students, teachers, or schools that would benefit from this program, please pass along this on to them.
October - In this month's Stormwater Toolbox Newsletter you can read about how water drains through Elkhart County and the three watersheds and one continental divide that exists in our County. You will also see how the landscape throughout Elkhart County changes from the higher hills of Bristol to the floodplains along the Elkhart and St. Joseph Rivers. You can also read about how leaves are the Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde of Autumn.
November - In this month's Stormwater Toolbox Newsletter you can read about what stormwater basins are and why they are important for managing stormwater runoff. The second page issues a warning about FOG (fats, oils, and grease) and the negative impacts it can have on sanitary sewers and water quality if disposed of incorrectly.
December - In this month's Stormwater Toolbox Newsletter you can read about two topics. The first topic is on an issue called Freshwater Salinization Syndrome, which is the name given to the rising issue of too much salt in our freshwater resources and why this is not a good thing. For more information on salt pollution, click here. The second topic is on why wetlands are important to our everyday lives and how human activities over the past 200 years have reduced wetland acreage throughout our country with 85% Indiana’s wetlands drained, plowed under, or paved over.

2017

January - Find a refresher on why the City of Goshen is considered an MS4 and find out who the Stormwater Hunter of 2016 is. The Greater Elkhart County Stormwater Partnership is also looking for pictures for the 2018-2019 Elkhart County Waters calendar. (Spanish)
February - Find out what steps to follow on small construction projects to prevent stormwater pollution and learn about what can and cannot be dumped down a drain (storm, kitchen, and bathroom).
March - Spills happen sometimes when fueling your vehicle so check out this month’s Stormwater Toolbox Newsletter for a few tips on what to do if you find yourself in a spill situation. You can also participate in Mayor Stutsman’s Year of Goodness by picking up trash or by adopting a storm drain.
April - When open dumpsters mix with rain or melting snow it results in something called "dumpster tea" and it is not something you want to drink or put into the environment. In this month's Newsletter, you will find what steps to take to make sure dumpster tea is not on the menu the next time you take out the trash. Also, read about the connection between the application of fertilizer and pesticides, and how they can negatively affect water quality.
May - Sediment is a major pollutant in our waterways worldwide and we must do all we can to prevent it from getting there. One way to do this is to put inlet protection measures on storm drains and you can find out one method in this month's Newsletter. Another pollutant of concern is grass clippings and if they reach a storm drain they can create both water quality and drainage issues.
June - The City of Goshen uses secondary containment measures at City facilities to prevent stormwater pollution. You can also find out more about why fireworks, even though they are beautiful, can harm the water quality of our waterways.
July - Everyone has a part to play in keeping our local waterways clean. See how Goshen employees play a vital role in the Stormwater Pollution Prevention Teams at each municipal facility and read about a clean-up day along Rock Run Creek held by a local non-profit group called The Rains.
August - Find out what the 7 steps to take are when responding and cleaning up a spill. Additionally, find out why Litter/Trash is a present-day "Tragedy of the Commons" and what you can do to make sure litter/trash does not reach our local waterways.
September - Happy New Water Year! In this month's Newsletter, you can read about tips to take this fall to keep leaves from becoming a stormwater pollutant and what the past water year looked like.
October - Find out why trash and construction debris are two common stormwater pollutants from construction sites when they are not disposed of correctly. We also recognize the 45th Anniversary of the Clean Water Act and why it is important to protect our water resources. 
November - Thank you to all City of Goshen Employees for the work they do every day to minimize stormwater pollution. In turn, thank you to each resident of Goshen for doing some of these same things. As we enter the Holiday Season it is important to prevent issues with F.O.G. and this month you can read about how Thanksgiving and Stormwater are connected.
December - Find out what happened this year in the world of stormwater both locally and globally and a small preview of what is to come in 2018 as you read this month's Newsletter. Additionally, we here at the Goshen Stormwater Department would like to wish everyone a Merry Christmas, Happy Holidays, and Peace to All.

2016

January - When it Snows the City Street Department's snow plows are sure to follow.
February - Stormwater pollution during winter months.
March - Sediment is a problem for local water quality.
April - No Newsletter
May - Trash in our local waterways is a problem and grass clippings are a stormwater pollutant of concern. 
June - Car washing can affect our local waterways and cigarette butts are a stormwater pollutant of concern.
July - Eutrophication and how you can prevent it and Clear Choices Clean Water.
August - Household Hazardous Waste and what to do with it, Top Ten Stormwater Myths and the Truth Behind them, and August is National Water Quality Month.
September - Stormwater Tips for the Fall and How You Can Help Prevent Stormwater Pollution.
October - Happy New Water Year! Find out what the celebration is all about and why trees are important in reducing the impact of stormwater runoff.
November - Winter is coming and those areas of bare soil need some cover. Learn more about why any cover is better than none. The Great Lakes are a wonderful treasure but we are filling them with an unknown plastic pollutant: microfibers. (Spanish)
December - Electronic waste or e-waste is a major source of soil and water pollution and food and beverage packaging is a major source of waterborne trash. Learn more about how to reduce and eliminate these sources of pollution in this month's Newsletter.

2015

May - Introduction of the City Stormwater Staff.
June - IDEM Audit date finalized and storm drain markers installed in Downtown Goshen.
July - Fireworks, are beautiful but they can create stormwater issues. Grass clippings and why it is important to keep them in your yard.
August - Find out what to do if your vehicle is leaking and why it is important to fix leaks right away.
September - Find out what a watershed is and the threats the Great Lakes face today and into the future.
October - No Newsletter
November - Happy New Water Year! Only you can prevent threats to the Great Lakes.
December - The 12 Clogs of Christmas and the Great Stormwater Hunt of 2015.

Return to the Stormwater Management Home Page