Lancer Dashboard

Storm Drain Markers

Only Rain, Down Longwood's Drain

A storm drain marker program was launched in fall 2010 to raise awareness about the relationship between water quality and the stormwater system. Student workers have been working with facilities staff to install the markers on storm drains within the campus triangle. Storm drain markers help prevent contamination and reduce the amount of pollutants that are transported through the stormwater system to local bodies of water. 

Storm drain marker with the text

How is a storm drain different from a sanitary sewer?

When water flows across pavement and down a storm drain, that water is piped directly to the nearest stream or lake; this water does not go to a wastewater treatment facility.  The purpose of a storm drain is to channel excess stormwater away from developed areas to prevent flooding.

Storm drain - Concrete curb inlet with a round metal storm drain cover set into the sidewalk. Small blue medallion nearby reads “Only Rain Down Longwood’s Drain.” Grass lawn borders the sidewalk beside the curb and street edge. Signage reminds viewers to keep pollutants out of the stormwater system.
Storm drain - Concrete curb inlet with a round metal storm drain cover set into the sidewalk. Small blue medallion nearby reads “Only Rain Down Longwood’s Drain.” Grass lawn borders the sidewalk beside the curb and street edge. Signage reminds viewers to keep pollutants out of the stormwater system.

How is a storm drain different from a sanitary sewer?

On the other hand, the sanitary sewer carries wastewater or sewage from toilets, kitchen and bathroom sinks, showers, tubs, dishwashers, and washing machines through an entirely separate underground piping network from the stormwater system. The wastewater is transported to the wastewater treatment facility where it is treated to remove biological nutrients prior to being discharged.  Manhole covers allow access for maintenance, but there are no open drains or grates.

Sanitary sewer - Round metal sewer manhole cover embedded in asphalt pavement. Raised lettering across the center reads “SEWER.” Decorative patterned texture surrounds the central text and manufacturer mark. Cover sits flush with the roadway surface.
Sanitary sewer - Round metal sewer manhole cover embedded in asphalt pavement. Raised lettering across the center reads “SEWER.” Decorative patterned texture surrounds the central text and manufacturer mark. Cover sits flush with the roadway surface.

Contact

Office for Sustainability

1202 Andrews Drive

Farmville, VA 23909

(434) 395-2947

(434) 395-2412

sustainability@longwood.edu