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When it rains, have you ever wondered where all that water goes? Much of the rainwater that runs across streets, driveways, sidewalks, and other hard surfaces enters storm drains and travels through storm sewer systems to local rivers, lakes, and streams. Along the way, stormwater can pick up pollutants such as oil, litter, fertilizer, pesticides, pet waste, and yard debris.

Small Actions Can Make a Big Difference

Keeping stormwater clean starts at home. Simple changes around your property can help prevent pollutants from entering storm drains and protect the waterways we all enjoy.

• Keep leaves and grass clippings out of storm drains. Yard debris can clog drains and contribute to flooding.
• Use fertilizers and pesticides carefully. Keep them off pavement and avoid applying them when rain is in the forecast.
• Pick up after your pets. Pet waste left outdoors can be carried into storm drains and waterways.
• Check vehicles for leaks. Oil and other automotive fluids can wash from driveways and streets into storm drains.
• Keep trash and dirty water away from storm drains. Never use a storm drain as a place to dispose of liquids or debris.
• Direct water onto grassy areas. Water from downspouts, lawn watering, and car washing can soak into the ground instead of running across pavement.
• Consider a rain barrel or rain garden. These features can capture rainwater and reduce the amount of runoff entering the storm sewer system.
• Sweep instead of spraying. Sweep sidewalks and driveways and place debris in the trash rather than washing it into the street.

These everyday practices can reduce the amount of pollution carried downstream and help keep our community’s rivers, lakes, and streams cleaner and healthier.

Building a Stormwater-Smart Community

Communities can also reduce stormwater runoff through green infrastructure. Rain gardens and bioretention areas allow rain to soak into the ground, while permeable pavement and green roofs can reduce the amount of water running off hard surfaces.

By being mindful of what goes onto our lawns, driveways, sidewalks, and streets, we can all help protect our local waterways. Together, we can Be Stormwater Smart and help create a cleaner, healthier community.