The City of Dayton Department of Water has again won a prestigious national award in recognition of its stormwater management program.

Dayton is one of six sector-leading stormwater organizations to win a 2024 National Municipal Stormwater and Green Infrastructure MS4 (Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System) Award granted by the Water Environment Federation (WEF). Dayton’s stormwater program has earned the honor four times over the past six years, most recently in 2022.

Effective stormwater management is essential for protecting rivers and streams from harmful runoff of pollutants and debris.

“We’re pleased to share the news that our department has once again won this prestigious award from a pool of national candidates,” said City of Dayton Department of Water Director Michael Powell. “This achievement speaks to the innovative approach our team takes to protect Dayton’s water for the community and the environment.”

In its Stormwater Report, WEF explains “The City of Dayton Department of Water delivers impressive results for the protection of its local waterways while keeping costs low by pursuing an extensive public outreach campaign.”

The article also mentions Dayton’s public engagement through river cleanup events and efforts (such as the Adopt a Storm Drain program) to prevent illegal discharges and pollution by utilizing a GIS-based map of the storm sewer system.

In a letter to the City of Dayton Dept. of Water, WEF Water Science and Engineering Center Senior Manager Lisa Gleason wrote, “After a thorough evaluation by an expert panel of judges, [Dayton's] program excelled in effectively managing stormwater, surpassing regulatory requirements, and demonstrating a commitment to innovative solutions.”

As described on WEF.org, the MS4 award recognizes “high-performing communities that meet and exceed regulatory requirements in a technically effective and financially efficient manner.”

A Dayton representative accepted the award on Oct. 7 at WEFTEC, WEF’s technical exhibition and conference, in New Orleans, Louisiana.

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About WEF

The Water Environment Federation (WEF) is a not-for-profit technical and educational organization of more than 30,000 individual members and 75 affiliated member associations representing water quality professionals around the world. Established in 1928, WEF’s mission is to inspire the water community in pursuit of human and environmental well-being. WEF’s goals are to attract and develop a passionate workforce, cultivate a purpose-driven community to sustainably solve water challenges for all, and lead the transformation to the circular water economy.

About City of Dayton Department of Water

The City of Dayton Department of Water treats and serves 23 billion gallons of water each year through 800 miles of water mains to 400,000 residents and businesses in Dayton and surrounding areas. Dayton’s stormwater infrastructure includes over 21,000 catch basins, 600 miles of storm sewer pipe, and over 550 outfalls along four major rivers. To learn more about Dayton’s stormwater program visit: daytonohio.gov/stormwater.