Protecting Our Water

The City of Fergus Falls storm sewers drain directly into the Otter Tail River, Lake Alice, Wright Lake, Hoot Lake, and other local waters. Anything that enters a storm drain flows untreated into these lakes and rivers. That means pollutants like grass clippings, leaves, pet waste, salt, oil, or litter can harm fish and wildlife, damage habitat, and impact recreation and drinking water.

To prevent this, Fergus Falls manages stormwater through a Stormwater Pollution Prevention Program (SWPPP), supported by a stormwater utility fee that funds operations, maintenance, and improvements.

Stormwater Pollution Prevention Program

The SWPPP is the city’s plan for reducing pollution in stormwater runoff and meeting Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA) permit requirements. Click the PDF links below to view different sections of the current Fergus Falls SWPPP.

•  Construction Site Stormwater Runoff Control (PDF)
•  Illicit Discharge Detection & Elimination (PDF)
•  Pollution Prevention/Good Housekeeping for Municipal Operations (PDF)
•  Public Education and Outreach (PDF)
•  Public Participation/Involvement (PDF)

Public Participation & Comment

Community input is essential to protect our lakes and rivers. Fergus Falls provides opportunities for residents to review and comment on the city’s stormwater program.

Opportunities to Participate

• Annual Public Meeting – Meetings will be announced through the City Hall meeting agendas. 
• Get Involved – Residents play a key role in protecting local water resources. Fergus Falls offers an annual public involvement activity that includes pollution education or a volunteer opportunity.
• Submit Comments Anytime – Residents may share feedback year-round. Contact Kyle Meyer, City Engineer by phone at (701)751-8370, or email at kyle.meyer@mooreengineeringinc.com.

How We Use Public Input

All feedback and comments are considered when the SWPPP is reviewed and updated.

Stormwater Utility Fund

Since 1997, Fergus Falls has operated a stormwater utility to fund system maintenance and improvements. Fees are based on the amount of runoff created by each property.

• Revenue from the utility supports:
• Compliance with state and federal regulations
• Maintaining and replacing stormwater facilities
• Enhancing wetlands to filter runoff and slow flows
• Street sweeping and leaf collection to keep debris out of drains

Stormwater Resources

Educational tools and fact sheets help residents reduce pollution.

• Cleaning Up Storm Water Run-off (PDF)
• EPA Illicit Discharge Fact Sheet (PDF)
• Pet Waste Fact Sheet (PDF)
• Salt-Tips for Winter (PDF)
• Wetlands Near Residential Areas (PDF)
• Yard & Garden Care (PDF)
• Minnesota Stormwater Manual
• MPCA Stormwater MS4 Program