Storm Drain Marking

A nationwide program called Stencil-A-Drain or Storm Drain Marking entails working with youth in providing an educational experience in storm water management.  A general misconception is that neighborhood storm drains empty into the local sewage treatment plant.  In fact, these drains lead directly into our creeks, rivers, and lakes.  Carelessly dumping oil, antifreeze, trash and household or garden chemicals down storm drains pollutes our supply of drinking water, destroys wildlife habitat and damages recreation facilities.

How does it work?

The Jefferson CD program works with teachers and students in Jefferson County Schools to stencil, or secure plaques, to storm drains with the message "Dump No Waste, Drains  To Creek."  This reminds people that urban pavement is still part of the watershed.    Teams of adult volunteers and students mark the drains in the school neighborhoods and pass out flyers to homes in the areas of the drains.  Prior to the marking, environmental programs are presented in the classrooms by representatives from the District and the USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service to educate students about the importance  of protecting our natural resources.

Conclusions?

The student are provided with an excellent community service project and the knowledge that keeping our storm drains free from pollutants protects our watersheds.  Evaluation of the project is the evidence from pretests administered to the students before the program and marking, and post-tests given after the project is over.  We have found that students have greatly increased their awareness of the hazards of dumping pollutants down storm drains.  Hopefully through the distribution of flyers and marking on the drains, community stewardship will be promoted of our most valuable natural resource - water.