Everyone urged to help keep storm drains clear

By Julia Wolf

It is important to keep storm drains, also called storm sewers, clear, to prevent problems down the line. Local municipalities are urging everyone to do their part to keep the area waterways clean and water systems in good working order.

Grass clippings, shrub trimming, leaves and other yard debris, should not be blown into or toward the street, as that is a significant source of stormwater pollution.

“Don’t blow them out into the street,” said Ben Jordan, Lake Holcombe town roadman, adding garbage also causes problems.

The yard waste can clog drains and cause flooding, and, as it breaks down, adds excess nutrients that can contribute to sediment, and uncontrolled growth of algae and aquatic weeds. If the growth blocks sunlight, oxygen in the rivers and lakes is depleted, and can lead to fish kills.

Some steps people can take to protect water quality, are leave clippings on the lawn or compost them. If yard debris blows onto a paved surface, people should sweep or blow the clippings back onto the lawn.

Fertilize only when necessary and, if rain is in the forecast, do not fertilize at all. Residents are also asked to clean up after their pets.

If chemical or fuel spills occur, people should use dry clean-up methods, such as a broom and dustpan, or absorbent materials. Never hose a spill into a storm drain.

Derek Braun, Cornell city works, says, what it comes down to, is nothing other than stormwater should go down the storm drains.

“Anything that does go in the storm sewers, goes to the river,” said Braun.