Where does the rain go? Published Jan. 24, 2013 By Cody Koontz 341st Civil Engineer Squadron MALMSTROM AIR FORCE BASE, Mont. -- Do you ever wonder what happens to the water when it rains or snows? In areas where vegetation is abundant, such as forests and fields, water is infiltrated into the soil. From there, the plants and trees soak up the water to keep them alive. According to the Environmental Protection Agency, only 10 percent of the total water from a storm runs above ground to a body of water. In urbanized areas where buildings and roads are present, water is unable to go directly into the soil. Water collected on sidewalks or roadways is transported to the storm drain system. The EPA estimates 55 percent of water from a storm in urban areas runs above ground to the storm drain system. The storm drain system drains directly to nearby bodies of water without any treatment. Many pollutants such as oil, cigarette butts and chemicals may be scattered along the roadways. These pollutants are picked up by the rain water and are transported to the storm drain system. Pollutants not only cause harm to the environment, but animals living in the rivers and streams, too. We can do our part by being careful to not litter and not dump any pollutants in the streets. By doing these things, we can keep fresh, clean water for the environment and recreation. Remember, we all have waterfront property - all water that goes in front of our houses goes directly to nearby rivers and streams.