Frequently Asked Questions

A watershed is an area of land where all the water—rainfall, streams, rivers, and groundwater—drains into a common water body, such as a river, lake, or ocean. Watersheds can vary in size from small to large, and they are essential for managing water resources, as they help collect, store, and channel water through the ecosystem. Watersheds also play a critical role in filtering pollutants and supporting biodiversity.

Wilmington is located within the Brandywine-Christina Watershed, which is part of the larger Delaware River Basin. The Brandywine-Christina Watershed includes several key tributaries such as the Brandywine Creek, White Clay Creek, and Red Clay Creek. This watershed plays a vital role in supplying drinking water and supporting ecosystems in the region.

You can help protect the watershed by taking simple actions like properly disposing of household chemicals, avoiding the use of fertilizers and pesticides before rain, picking up pet waste, and planting native vegetation to prevent erosion. Reducing runoff from your property by using rain barrels or permeable materials for driveways and walkways also helps. These actions keep pollutants from entering storm drains and local waterways, preserving the health of the entire watershed ecosystem.

The City of Wilmington protects the watershed through a combination of strategies, including managing stormwater with green infrastructure like rain gardens, permeable pavements, and detention basins. The City also implements regular street sweeping, inspections, and maintenance of the stormwater system to reduce pollution. Additionally, Wilmington enforces regulations on construction projects to control runoff and partners with local organizations to raise public awareness about water quality and conservation efforts. These combined efforts help to reduce pollution and improve the health of local waterways.

Read more about Wilmington's Source Water Protection Plan here.

Foam on rivers or streams is often natural. It forms when leaves, soil, and other organic material break down and release natural compounds that act like soap, making bubbles when water is stirred up by wind or rapids. This foam is usually tan or off-white and smells earthy or fishy — it’s harmless.

Foam caused by pollution, on the other hand, is bright white, thick, and long-lasting. It often smells like chemicals, soap, or perfume. If it looks or smells unnatural — especially near storm drains or pipes — it might be contamination. In that case, report it.