Stormwater regulations define an “illicit discharge” as “any discharge to a municipal separate storm sewer that is not composed entirely of stormwater” (except discharges resulting from fire fighting activities and a few other categories). There are three types of discharge frequencies that help characterize a possible illicit discharge. The three types of frequencies are:
1. Continuous-discharges occurring most or all of the time, which are easier for us to recognize but produce the largest amounts pollutant loads.
2. Intermittent-discharges occurring over a shorter period of time (i.e. a few hours per day). These discharges are harder to detect, but still represent a serious water quality issues.
3. Transitory-discharges occurring rarely, usually due to an industrial/accidental spill, ruptured tank, sewer break, or illegal dumping. These dischargers are extremely hard to detect but can have severe water quality impacts.
Potential illicit discharges include but not limited to:
- Sewage
- Washwater
- Liquid wastes
- Broken tap water lines
- Landscape irrigation
- Groundwater
If you are on campus and notice an illicit discharge or even suspect one please call the physical plant at 304-696-6680 or email physplant@marshall.edu. We cannot be a success without your help!