Stormwater Program

Managing stormwater is a challenging responsibility, especially in urbanized areas where runoff from rain events and melting snow can flow quickly over paved areas into our lakes and streams.  This issue becomes especially important when stormwater collects and transports pollutants such as road salt, pesticides, fertilizers, petroleum products, antifreeze, animal waste, and litter into our surface waters impacting drinking water quality, wildlife habitat, and recreational areas.

The Department is involved in coordinating both inter-departmental and intermunicipal aspects of the County's mandatory stormwater management program and works closely with the Department of Public Works to comply with State regulations related to stormwater discharges.

In order to meet the challenges of addressing stormwater runoff issues and State permit compliance, the County, in partnership with eleven other regulated municipalities, applied for state grants through the NYS Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC). Two grants were awarded to work toward meeting shared stormwater management goals and bringing municipalities into compliance with the new regulations.

For more information, please e-mail Nancy Heinzen, Stormwater Program Coordinator Nheinzen@albanycounty.com or call (518) 447-5645.

More information:

Albany County Department of Public Works is responsible for the construction and maintenance of the stormwater conveyance system along County roads. The Commissioner of Public Works is designated as the County's Stormwater Management Officer, manages the County Stormwater system, and enforces the Illicit Discharge and Elimination Law.

Albany County Soil and Water Conservation District is a partner in promoting stormwater awareness by producing educational literature and supporting stormwater workshops for construction contractors and municipal officials.