What is the goal of stormwater pollution prevention practices?

The primary goal of stormwater pollution prevention practices is to reduce or eliminate the discharge of pollutants from stormwater. This focus is critical as stormwater runoff can carry various contaminants, such as sediments, nutrients, heavy metals, and chemical pollutants, directly into rivers, lakes, and oceans, negatively impacting water quality and aquatic ecosystems.

Effective stormwater management involves implementing practices designed to minimize pollutant loads, maintain the natural hydrologic cycle, and protect public health and the environment. Techniques like using green infrastructure, improving site design to reduce runoff, and employing best management practices (BMPs) are essential components of a stormwater pollution prevention plan.

Other answer choices, while they may have some relevance to water management or environmental quality, do not specifically address the core objective of stormwater pollution prevention. Enhancing appearance or promoting recreational use is secondary to the primary concern of maintaining water quality through effective pollutant management.