Appendix A. A citizen’s guide to identifying and reporting pollution problems.

   (a)    It is very important for you, as a citizen of the village, to report problems when observed, so that the appropriate government agency can take immediate action. Public reporting of pollution problems allows us to more efficiently keep our community clean and environmentally safe.

   (b)    Be on the lookout for these common pollution problems:

   (1)   Unprotected areas of bare soil on a construction site or on any other site. Construction sites must have erosion control structures such as siltation fences and vegetated filters. In addition, no construction site should be left without vegetation for longer than 30 working days after work on the site has been completed. Under no circumstances should bare soil be left within 50 feet of a wetland or waterway.

   (2)   Illegal dumping and illegal dump sites. Look for debris dumped in creeks and along roadsides by companies and individuals trying to avoid landfill fees.

   (3)   Discharges to creeks, wetlands or the ocean. Look for channels running directly from a home or business to a wetland or a natural waterway. In addition, look for pipes that discharge directly to a natural waterway.

   (4)   Oil and other chemical spills. Oil appears as a shiny slick on the surface of natural waters. Other chemical spills may be identified when water has an unusual color or odor.

   (5)   Sewer and septic system leaks from pipes and manholes. Usually, the best way to identify sewer and septic problems is the odor. If you sense a problem, try to identify the source.

   (6)   Degraded water. Some things to look for include bright green algae growth, unusual odors, and dead aquatic life.

   (c)    To report pollution problems:

   (1)   If you see a pollution violation such as illegal dumping, in progress, write down important information such as license plate numbers and company names. If possible, you should take photographs as evidence. This information may be used to hold polluters accountable.

   (2)   Report pollution violations and water pollution problems to the village manager at [phone].

   (3)   If the violation is of a very serious nature you may report problems directly to the state Department of Environmental Quality in Wilmington at [phone]. Once you describe the nature of the problem, you will be directed to the appropriate person and agency.

(Ord. of 5-20-2000, app. A; Ord. 2016-1202, 12-16-2016)