Seasonal Stormwater Guide
Stormwater challenges change throughout the year. Spring rains, summer lawn care, fall leaves, and winter snow and ice each affect how water moves across our neighborhoods—and what it carries with it.
This guide organizes practical tips by season so you can take simple actions at the right time of year. Whether you’re preparing for heavy spring rains or choosing the right ice melt in winter, small seasonal habits help protect Nebraska’s rivers, streams, lakes, and groundwater.
Looking for information about a specific homeowner activity instead? Visit Prevent Pollution Around Your Home to explore water-quality topics by location around your home.
Spring: Rain, Runoff, and Yard Cleanup
Spring brings heavy rains, saturated soils, and seasonal yard work.
Common Spring Concerns
- Standing water in yards
- Basement flooding
- Storm drain blockages
- Fertilizer applications
- Spring cleanup
Quick Tips
✓ Check downspouts
✓ Clear debris from drainage paths
✓ Test sump pumps
✓ Avoid fertilizing before rain
✓ Pick up pet waste
Rain Gardens 101
Slow runoff with a garden designed for stormwater.
Why Does Water Pool In My Yard After It Rains?
Find out why your yard stays wet after heavy rain.
Native Plants and Water Quality: Why Going Native Helps Our Waterways
Choose native plants that naturally protect water quality.
Why Does My Basement Flood During Heavy Rain?
Find the source of recurring basement water problems.
How Can I Reduce Flooding at My House?
Explore ways to manage stormwater before it reaches your home.
What Should I Do After My House Floods?
Take the right steps after flooding to begin recovery.
Summer: Water Quality and Outdoor Living
Summer brings lawn care, outdoor recreation, and warmer water temperatures.
Common Summer Concerns
- Lawn chemicals
- Pet waste
- Algae blooms
- Water conservation
- Outdoor projects
Quick Tips
✓ Water early in the morning
✓ Use lawn chemicals as directed
✓ Keep grass clippings out of streets
✓ Sweep instead of hosing
✓ Maintain vehicles to prevent leaks
Healthy Lawns, Healthy Waterways: Grow a Healthier Lawn While Reducing Runoff and Water Use
Care for your lawn without sacrificing water quality.
Pick Up the Broom, Not the Hose
Sweep debris up instead of washing it down a storm drain
Car Washing and Water Quality
Wash your vehicle without sending soap into storm drains.
DIY Projects and Pollution
Prevent paint, concrete, and debris from reaching storm drains.
Power Washing and Water Quality
Clean outdoor surfaces while keeping wash water contained.
Fall: Leaves, Fertilizer, and Preparation
Fall is one of the most important seasons for stormwater protection.
Common Fall Concerns
- Leaves in storm drains
- Fall fertilization
- Yard cleanup
- Preparing for winter
Quick Tips
✓ Mulch or compost leaves
✓ Keep storm drains clear
✓ Dispose of hazardous waste properly
✓ Apply fertilizer responsibly
✓ Prepare drainage systems before winter
Stormwater in the Fall
Get your property ready for fall storms and falling leaves.
Leaves, Grass, and Yard Waste: When ‘Natural’ Materials Pollute
Compost or mulch yard waste insetad of washing it away.
Household Hazardous Waste: What Can Go in the Trash and What Can’t?
Keep household chemicals out of storm drains and waterways.
Winter: Snow, Ice, and Salt
Stormwater doesn’t stop when temperatures drop.
Common Winter Concerns
- Ice melt products
- Snowmelt runoff
- Frozen drains
- Winter pet waste
- Vehicle leaks
Quick Tips
✓ Shovel before applying salt
✓ Use only the amount needed
✓ Clear snow from storm drains
✓ Pick up pet waste year-round
✓ Use indoor car washes when practical
Winter Matters Too: Snow, Ice, and Stormwater Pollution
Prevent winter runoff from carrying pollutants downstream.
Ice Melt Products
Reduce salt use while keeping walkways safe.
Small Actions Make A Big Difference
Stormwater protection isn’t something you do once a year. Small seasonal habits—whether you’re planting in the spring, mowing in the summer, cleaning up leaves in the fall, or using ice melt carefully in the winter—add up over time. Returning to these practices throughout the year helps protect Nebraska’s waterways for everyone.
Keep Learning
Stormwater management is connected. Explore another guide to learn about green infrastructure, pollution prevention, or water-friendly landscaping.