Keep Our Storm Drains CleanCLEARWATER - Only rain should go down the drain! Storm water travels through pipes under our roads just like sewage, and it's not treated at a wastewater treatment plant. Instead, storm water flows directly into ponds, lakes, rivers, and eventually into Tampa Bay and the Gulf of Mexico. Trash, debris, and pollutants in yards - like fertilizers, pesticides, and herbicides - wash into the stormwater system and pollute our environment. They also cause blockages in storm pipes. Contaminants such as detergents, motor oil, or clippings from chemical-treated grass are dangerous to our water. Do your part and help keep our neighborhoods and waterways free of debris for a clean city: Maintain good vegetative ground cover, such as grass, plants, etc. to help prevent soil and sediment from washing into drains. Sweep areas regularly to prevent objects from washing into storm drains. Dispose of yard clippings, leaves, branches, pine cones, etc. at the local landfill, or bag them to be picked up for yard waste recycling. Do not blow them into streets during lawn maintenance. Clean up spills, rather than wash them into the street or catch basin. You can use simple clean-up materials like paper towels, cat litter, and oil-absorbent pads. Pick up after your pet. The city encourages the reporting of malicious illicit discharge. If you see someone improperly disposing of dangerous materials, call Pinellas County at (727) 464-4425 or the Stormwater Watch Line at (727) 464-5060. For more information, visit www.MyClearwater.com/Green.
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