That Storm Drain Isn't a Trash Can

That Storm Drain Isn't a Trash Can

Here's something you might not think about when you see a discarded wrapper near the curb.

Where does it go when the rain comes?

In many communities, storm drains carry rainwater into nearby streams, creeks, and rivers without first

passing through a wastewater treatment plant.

That means litter left along our streets can eventually become water pollution.

The EPA explains that rainwater runoff can transport plastic, cigarette butts, and other debris into local

waterways.

Here in the Riverbend, protecting our streets and waterways is especially important because of our close

connection to the Mississippi River.

Not every storm drain follows the same route, but the message is simple: Trash doesn't belong in any of

them.

THE TAKEAWAY: Keeping litter away from curbs and storm drains helps protect the waterways

that make our community special.

SOURCE: U.S. EPA, Keep Pollution Out of Storm Drains — epa.gov/beaches/take-action-home