Program Objectives

Public education and outreach is a key component of proper stormwater management in the City of Greeley, as well as in meeting the Stormwater Phase II requirements. To that end, the following PEO objectives are presented:

• Address public perceptions and attitudes regarding urban runoff and stormwater quality. Improve understanding of why stormwater programs exist.
• Increase public awareness about urban runoff and its impact on the City's natural resources.
• Educate the public about pollutant sources and what can be done to reduce urban runoff pollution.
• Encourage participation in City-based projects and activities that focus on pollution prevention.
• Achieve greater compliance with regulatory requirements through individual action.

Target Audiences

For the purpose of developing public education and outreach activities, the following sectors have been identified within the City of Greeley:

• Residential community
• Commercial/Business
• Construction

Priority Messages

The City of Greeley will tailor education and outreach efforts to address the runoff issues and concerns most closely associated with each target audience. A variety of contact methods will be used to reach the maximum number of people possible. In general terms the priority messages are:

• Careless or improper handling and storage of many materials and waste products can result in pollutants entering local water bodies or natural areas and degrading water quality.
• These discharges can affect wildlife, water quality, health, and eventually damage the quality of life in the city.
• Reduction of pollutants is a responsibility of the community as a whole, and can be achieved easily.
• The conveyance of stormwater is the major function of our Municipal Separate Storm Sewer Systems (MS4), including open space drainage.
• The fluctuation of water levels within the stormwater facilities is a natural and foreseen occurrence, as is the need for routine maintenance of these pipes, inlets and outlets, streams, channels and ponds.