Join us this May in celebrating Stormwater Stewardship Month in the Tampa Bay region! This month-long campaign is dedicated to educating residents and visitors about stormwater runoff, common sources of pollution, and what we can all do to help. Organized by the Tampa Bay Regional Planning Council (TBRPC), in collaboration with local governments, partner organizations, and the University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (UF IFAS), the campaign aims to raise awareness about the importance of stormwater management and our collective role in protecting the environment.

Most stormwater—water from rain—travels across land and paved surfaces into storm drains. From there, it moves through underground pipes and open channels, eventually reaching our streams, rivers, and lakes.

Improving the quality of our stormwater has a huge impact on both our communities and ecosystems. Education plays a key role—most residents don’t realize that stormwater is not treated before it enters our local waterways.

Throughout May, themed weeks will highlight simple actions everyone can take to reduce pollution and manage stormwater more effectively.

How You Can Get Involved

• Access Ready-to-Use Educational Resources: We’ve created a variety of graphics and materials for local governments and organizations to use throughout the themed weeks of Stormwater Stewardship Month. These free, easy-to-share tools will help you spread the word about stormwater stewardship in your community.
• Post and Share the Materials: Use the provided content on social media, your website, or in newsletters. Amplify the message and help others understand the importance of minimizing stormwater pollution.
• Create Local Campaigns and Events: Go a step further by organizing your own stormwater-related activities. Host a community cleanup, lead a workshop, or collaborate with other organizations to create engaging events that promote stormwater awareness and action.
• Sign the Pledge: Review the responsibilities of a true Stormwater Steward and pledge to things that can make a difference.

Stormwater stewardship is not just a local issue—it’s a regional responsibility.
By working together, we can ensure future generations in the Tampa Bay area have access to clean water and healthy ecosystems.

Week 1: What is Stormwater & The Path of Stormwater Runoff

We’ll kick off the month by explaining what stormwater is and how it moves through our communities. Stormwater runoff occurs when rain or melted snow flows over impervious surfaces like roads, driveways, and rooftops, picking up pollutants along the way. We’ll also clarify the difference between stormwater runoff and storm surge—a rise in sea level due to storms, especially hurricanes. Understanding the path of stormwater and how it differs from other water-related events will help us better manage it and reduce pollution in our local watersheds.

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