Keep Leaves Out of Storm Drains

As the leaves begin to change and fall, it’s easy to grab a rake or leaf blower and move them into the street. While it may seem like the quickest way to clean up your yard, leaves and other yard debris can create problems for local drainage, waterways, and the environment. 

Storm drains are designed to carry rainwater away from streets and neighborhoods. When leaves, grass clippings, and other debris collect in these areas, they can restrict the flow of water and contribute to standing water after heavy rainfall.

Keeping leaves out of streets and storm drains also helps protect nearby creeks, streams, and rivers. As yard debris break down in the water, it can affect water quality and aquatic ecosystems.

What You Can Do

A few simple steps can help reduce debris in streets and waterways this fall:

• Rake or blow leaves onto your lawn or collect them for disposal according to your community’s yard waste guidelines.
• Keep leaves, grass clippings, and mulch out of streets and gutters.
• Before forecasted rain, safely remove loose leaves or debris from areas around your home that could wash into storm drains.
• Never dispose of yard waste in ditches, creeks, or storm drains.

Protecting Our Waterways

Everyday actions can make a difference in protecting the water resources we all depend on. By keeping leaves and yard debris out of streets and storm drains, you can help reduce pollution, support healthier waterways, and protect the natural environment.

This fall, a simple change in your yard cleanup routine can help keep leaves where they belong and protect the waterways around your community.