Stormwater runoff involves water not absorbed by the ground when it rains. Due to urban expansion, this has become a growing concern as manmade impervious surfaces, such as rooftops, parking lots, and roads increase stormwater runoff.  This is now considered one of the leading causes of water pollution.
 
In an effort to protect life, property and the water environment from loss, injury and damage caused by storm and surface water, the EPA has designated Morgantown, like many other cities and counties across the state, as a “Phase 2” stormwater community. According to the Clean Water Act, a Phase 2 designation requires cities to actively manage stormwater to the new EPA standards or face significant penalties. 
 
Also, the 2001 West Virginia Legislature authorized municipalities to regulate stormwater management and surface water discharge. Morgantown Utility Board will therefore be managing all stormwater protection efforts as well as the public waterworks and sewerage systems for our various service areas. Although there are stormwater utilities in most other states, this is the first such effort in West Virginia.