Storm water runoff issues are socially and environmentally complex. Storm water runoff is the water that occurs due to precipitation that falls onto parking lots, roads, yards, roof-tops, etc. This water travels along various routes on its way to water sources of drains. On the way it collects debris and pollutants like: oil, pesticides, fertilizer, chemicals and other objects get caught in the water and end up in water ways. The decisions of individuals and institutions within a city ultimately determine the extent to which storm water runoff becomes an environmental hazard. This research explores Ashland, Oregon's storm water runoff and citizen action to prevent bacteria, debris and toxic chemicals from entering into storm water runoff. Both the publicly institutionalized and individual responses to storm water are explored and reported as potential targets for continued mitigation.