Stormwater

The City of La Joya is working with the RGV Stormwater Task Force to better control rainwater runoff, reduce pollution, and protect our local waterways.

Department Description

The Department is charged with managing Stormwater regulations to prevent and mitigate flooding. The City is a member of the RGV Stormwater Task Force. However, La Joya is not part of, nor pays property taxes for, the Hidalgo County Drainage District #1. Maintenance of storm drains is performed by the Public Works Department.

City of La Joya Stormwater Annual Report 2024

City of La Joya Stormwater Permit

City of La Joya SWP Final Report 2024

City of La Joya Stormwater Management program 2013-2018

For more information contact the Stormwater Hotline: 956.585.4855.

What is Stormwater runoff?

Stormwater runoff occurs when rain flows over hard surfaces such as streets, driveways, parking lots, rooftops, and other paved areas where water cannot soak into the ground. This runoff enters the City’s stormwater system and eventually flows into nearby wetlands, streams, and rivers.

Along the way, stormwater picks up pollutants from streets, lawns, farms, and construction or industrial sites, including fertilizers, dirt, sediment, pesticides, oil, and grease. Unlike pollution from a single factory or treatment plant, stormwater pollution comes from many everyday activities. These discharges are a major cause of local water quality problems and can reduce or prevent safe recreational use of our waterways.

Stormwater Management

What is it?

Stormwater management is the practice of controlling rainwater runoff to protect local waterways. This includes managing land use and development in ways that maintain the amount, speed, and quality of stormwater.
It also involves preventing runoff before it starts by reducing hard surfaces, slowing and storing water on the land, improving soils so they absorb more rain, and using plants and vegetation to filter runoff naturally. Good housekeeping practices at homes, businesses, and construction sites further help keep sediment and pollutants out of streams.

Why is it important?

In natural areas without paved surfaces, rainwater moves slowly toward streams. Only a small amount falls directly into the stream, while most of the water soaks into the ground and gradually flows through the soil before reaching nearby waterways.

When paved and hard surfaces are added, rainwater reaches streams much faster and in much larger amounts. In developed areas, storm drains and pipes are designed to move water off the land quickly, sending it straight to streams. This rapid and excessive flow can cause flooding and erode streambanks. The resulting muddy water damages aquatic life, destroys habitat, and affects downstream water users. Preventing runoff at its source is therefore an important part of protecting local waterways.

Stormwater Pollution Prevention

Let’s Work Together to Protect Our Local Waters!

Everyone plays a role in keeping our streams, rivers, and wetlands clean and healthy. Stormwater pollution is caused by everyday activities, but small changes can make a big difference. By taking simple steps at home and in your neighborhood, you can help protect water quality for people, wildlife, and future generations.

10 Simple Things You Can Do to Be Part of the Solution to Stormwater Pollution

Never dump anything onto the street, into a storm drain, or into a drainage ditch. Storm drains flow directly to local waterways without treatment.
Pick up after your pet. Bag pet waste and place it in the trash to prevent bacteria and nutrients from washing into streams.
Properly manage yard waste. Compost leaves and grass clippings or place them in bags for curbside collection—never blow them into the street.
Use fertilizers and pesticides sparingly. Always read and follow label directions and avoid applying products before rain is forecast.
Dispose of litter properly. Trash left on the ground can easily wash into storm drains and waterways.
Maintain your septic system. Regular inspections and maintenance help prevent leaks that can contaminate nearby waters.
Check vehicles for leaks. Fix oil, coolant, or fuel leaks promptly to keep harmful fluids off driveways and roads.
Recycle motor oil and vehicle fluids. Never pour them on the ground or into drains—use designated recycling locations instead.
Wash vehicles responsibly. Wash your car over a grassy area or use a commercial car wash that recycles water, rather than washing on paved surfaces.
Spread the word. Talk with friends, family, and neighbors about simple ways they can help prevent stormwater pollution.

Kids Corner the Stormwater Fun Zone!

At the Kids Corner, learning about stormwater is made fun and simple! Kids can explore how rainwater moves through their community, why clean water is important, and how they can help protect rivers and streams. This section includes coloring pages, activities, and helpful resources for kids, parents, and teachers.

Videos to understand Stormwater

Activites for the kids!

Pre-K to 1st Graders

Where Stormwater Flows coloring page

2nd to 4th Graders

Stormwater Activity Worksheets

5th to 8th Graders

Stormwater Crossword Activity

Remember to Help Protect Our Water!

Small actions can make a big difference. You can help keep our stormwater clean by remembering to:

Pick up trash and place it in a trash can
Clean up pet waste and dispose of it properly
Sweep driveways and sidewalks instead of washing debris into the street
Never pour liquids like oil, paint, or chemicals into storm drains
Keep leaves and grass clippings out of streets and storm drains

Every drop counts. By working together, we can help protect our rivers, streams, and local waterways.

Want to learn more or report a stormwater concern?
Call your city’s Stormwater Hotline 956.585.4855 or visit the LRGV Stormwater website to find tips and ways to help keep local waterways clean.