Action Overview

You probably know that rainwater flowing off your property flows into the neighborhood storm drain and then eventually out to the nearest waterway or ocean. Did you also know that most trash and pollutants get carried along with that rainwater? Also there are many things, in addition to litter,  that could cause harm to our waterways or ocean. Extra fertilizers from your yard or oil from your driveway can lead to adverse impacts to marine wildlife. Luckily many people in your community do know. In fact, you can probably spot a few strategies your neighbors have put in place to help reduce polluted runoff from entering the storm drains. 
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In this activity, you will walk your community and look for creative solutions your neighbors have installed to be a good steward of the environment. What types of strategies will you find in your neighborhood that help prevent pollutants from going into the storm drain? Examples include: rain barrels, bioswales to filter runoff, and covered trash cans to properly dispose of waste and litter. 

Instructions

1. Print the Stormwater Pollution Solutions Data Sheet Stormwater Pollution Solutions Data Sheet and take it with you on your walk.
2. Find as many of the listed solutions as possible. Try to find three in a row or all of them. 
3. Return home and complete the short Google form below to report to your city and water district to help plan improvements in our neighborhoods.​

Evaluate and Report

Complete the short form using the button below to help your community leaders plan improvements in our neighborhoods.

Submit findings