Storm Drain Marking

Non-point source pollution or "People Pollution" is the contamination of our waterways that results from everyday activities such as fertilizing lawns, pet waste, dumping of chemicals and littering. With each rainfall, pollutants generated by these activities are washed into storm drains. These storm drains flow directly into our local streams, carrying the pollution with it. Pollutants can also soak into the ground, contaminating our groundwater. Everybody can contribute to non-point source pollution. As a result, it is the greatest threat to many of our waterways and groundwater supplies, accounting for nearly 60% of New Jersey's water problems.

According to the NJ Stormwater Rules, all storm drain inlets are required to be mapped and labeled by 2009. URWA coordinates storm drain markings in residential neighborhoods. We conduct an educational presentation for volunteers, assist the group in affixing storm drains markers that read "No dumping drains to stream", and provide informational pamphlets for distribution to homeowners. These markers will remind citizens that we all play a part in the solution to pollution.

URWA uses storm drain marking as a tool to promote awareness of non-point source pollution. This is an excellent project for scout groups and can be used to earn conservation badges or community service hours. Because everyone contributes to non-point source pollution, everyone can be a part of the solution.

Please contact Lauren Thies if you would like to do a storm drain marking project with your group.

What can I do to prevent non-point source pollution? It's simple! Dump nothing down the storm drain that you wouldn't swim in or drink.

• Use less fertilizer on lawns
• Avoid pesticides
• Compost garden trimmings
• Pick up after your pet
• Don’t litter
• Bring leftover paints and pesticides to Household Hazardous Waste collection days