Keeping our community clean starts with everyday choices, including what we allow to wash into our storm drains. These drains help carry rainwater away from streets and neighborhoods, but they can also carry litter, chemicals, and other pollutants into local waterways. Unlike wastewater from household drains, stormwater generally does not go through a wastewater treatment plant before entering the environment.
What Goes Down the Drain Matters
When rain flows over driveways, sidewalks, streets, and rooftops, it can pick up pollutants along the way. That runoff enters the storm drainage system and can eventually reach creeks, rivers, lakes, and wildlife habitats.
Common stormwater pollutants include:
• Motor oil and grease
• Fertilizers and pesticides
• Soap and detergents
• Trash and other debris
• Grass clippings and leaves
• Pet waste
• Paint and household chemicals
Keeping these materials out of storm drains helps protect water quality and the fish and wildlife that depend on healthy waterways.
A Cleaner Community Starts With Us
Protecting our waterways takes a community effort. By reducing litter, collecting yard waste, disposing of chemicals responsibly, and joining local cleanups, we can help keep pollution out of the places we share.
Remember: Storm drains are designed for rain, not trash.