EARTH SMART ACTIONS

Action 1:
The Problem with Stormwater Pollution

Action Overview

In the introduction you watched a short video that explained the magnitude of the problem, but how do pollutants in our neighborhoods get to the Great Pacific Garbage Patch?  When it rains, water flows through our yards, down our streets and enters storm drains. The storm drain system uses underground pipes, concrete culverts and naturally vegetated channels to route storm water away from our homes . A carefully engineered storm drain system ensures heavy rains will not flood our streets, homes and businesses. However, we are the problem. We are allowing pollutants like litter, sediment and oil to enter system and they are flowing with it to our rivers, lakes and lagoons.  You might be surprised to learn which pollutants cause the most problems. ​
Common stormwater pollutants found in our neighborhoods
Fertilizers cause algae blooms that starve downstream ecosystems of oxygen
Plant debris and sediment blocks sunlight downstream
Litter, but especially plastic
Pet waste contains dangerous microorganisms
One drop of oil pollutes a million drops of water
Soaps and grime for washing cars disrupts the delicate food chain

Instructions for this Action

  1. Print out this data collection sheet, get a pencil and take a walk around your neighborhood to see if you can spot some of these common stormwater pollutants. 
  2. Look for areas where pollutants are causing problems in your neighborhood. Make a note of what pollutants you find and where you find them. Note any hot spots that are heavily littered.
  3. Come back and report what you found using the form below.

Evaluate and Report

Report back to us about what you found. This information helps us manage our stormwater system. 
Submit findings
info@bckprograms.com
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