Larry R. Thomas
Revised 09-01-07
September is "Help Keep Pollution Out of Storm Drains" Month
Remember, it ALL drains to our lakes and rivers.
What’s the issue?
Storm drains lead to our lakes and streams. So, any oil, pet waste, leaves, or dirty water from washing your car that enters a storm drain gets into our lakes and streams. With almost five million people living in Southeast Michigan, we all need to be aware of what goes into our storm drains. Remember, only rain in the drain!
What are some helpful tips?
Here are some simple steps you can take to help keep pollutants out of storm drains and keep our water clean. Give them a try. A few simple changes can make a big difference!
Sweep it. Do you have extra fertilizer, grass clippings, or dirt on your driveway? Sweep it back onto your lawn. Hosing your driveway sends these pollutants into storm drains that lead to our lakes and streams.
Keep it clean. Whether in the street or in your yard, remember to keep leaves, grass clippings, trash, and fertilizers out of storm drains.
Only rain in the drain. Never dump motor oil, chemicals, pet waste, dirty or soapy water, or anything else down the storm drain. All of these materials pollute our lakes and streams!
Label it. Volunteer to label storm drains in your neighborhood to inform residents that storm drains flow directly to our lakes and streams. Encourage citizens to contact their local community for more information on storm drain stenciling programs.
It is also important to properly dispose of recreational vehicle sanitary waste. Find locations and requirements of recreational waste sites in Michigan. Dispose properly and help protect the environment! For more information go to www.rvdumps.com/mi.htm.
Open the PDF of the Help keep pollution out of storm drains tip card
Open the PDF of the Help keep pollution out of storm drains poster
Visit www.semcog.org/ourstoprotect for additional information like public service announcements, and kids' activities, or to order materials such as tip cards, posters, and displays. You can also contact SEMCOG's information services at infoservices@semcog.org or 313.961.4266.
For questions about the "Our Water. Our Future. Ours to Protect." program contact Iris Steinberg at steinberg@semcog.org or 313.961.4266.
Sincerely,
