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Adopt-A-Drain

The Department of Public Works is looking for residents that want to get involved! The Bayside Adopt-A-Drain program allows residents and local organizations to “adopt” storm drains to help protect nearby drains from unwanted debris, pollutants, or blockages.

This program helps to ensure neighborhood drainage systems work as efficiently as possible by keeping the surface of drains and nearby areas clear of leaves, litter, and debris blockages, which simultaneously protects the water quality!

Join the Initiative

You have probably passed by storm drains in the Village without realizing they are there and need your support. The best part is anyone can adopt! Individuals, families, and organizations of all types are welcome to adopt as long as they feel they can effectively and reasonably monitor the adopted drain.

If you are willing to adopt a drain near you, follow this link to adopt the storm drain(s) of your choosing. Please view the map to choose the drain number(s) prior to adopting.

A “No Dumping – Drains to Waterway” stencil will be painted on the road by your drain upon adoption.

Benefits of Adopting a Storm Drain

  • Help reduce or prevent local flooding: Clogged storm drain inlets can cause or worsen flooding. Keeping drains and drain inlets free from debris will help water drain properly.
  • Help protect our waterways from pollution: Stormwater flows to waterways untreated and is the #1 contributor of pollution to our waters. By keeping litter and pollutants out of storm drains you are helping protect nearby lakes, rivers, and streams.
  • Help keep your neighborhood clean and free of liter. Show community pride and set a positive example by being an active steward of your neighborhood.

It’s easy as 1-2-3! Here’s how it works:

  1. Monitor the adopted drain weekly and remove debris on and around the drain as needed – particularly before a rain or storm event if it is safe to do so.
  2. Clear debris within the ditch area several yards along each side of the storm drain, especially an uphill side.
  3. Report your efforts to let us know you have inspected and/or serviced your drain by submitting a simple “Field Inspection Report” monthly with weekly checks spring through fall.

 

GUIDELINES

Inspection & Debris Removal

  • When possible clear your storm drains prior to and following any rainfall.
  • Always sweep, rake, or shovel glass. Never pick up sharp objects with your hands.
  • Never touch hazardous or medical waste including automotive fluids and hypodermic needles.
  • Garbage bags, buckets, brooms, and landscaping gloves are generally helpful when inspection and cleaning a storm drain.
  • Sweep material away from the storm drain, not into it – and capture it for disposal as you can.
  • To the extent possible, place recyclables and garbage into your residential bins.
  • Clear surface debris only; let the Public Works crew handle garbage or hazards inside the catch basin – make a report to DPW in field inspection report.
  • NEVER ATTEMPT TO ENTER INTO A STORM DRAIN.
  • Clear debris within the ditch area several yards along each side of the storm drain, especially the uphill side.
  • Do not use power tools. Carry tools carefully to avoid hurting others or yourself.
  • Please complete and send in the Field Inspection Report every month – link will be provided.
  • Never attempt to clean debris if there is moving water that prevents you from having a clear view of the drain.
  • Be cautious when walking on potential slippery or uneven surfaces.

General Safety

  • Call 911 for emergencies. If injured while volunteering, please seek necessary medical attention immediately.
  • Safety comes first!
  • Wear durable or heavy, closed toe, shoes/boots, preferably with ankle support. – as required
  • Wear gloves and durable pants, tops, jackets, and hats. – as required
  • Always stay hydrated.
  • Wash hands and any clothing after contact with stormwater runoff.
  • If a drain is still clogged after you removed the surface debris, please contact the Operations Assistant at 414-206-3919.
  • Make sure an adult is present and supervising any person under the age of eighteen who may be assisting with the inspection and cleaning of a storm drain.
  • DO NOT attempt to remove, lift, move, or reset a storm drain grate, cap, or lid. They are very heavy and may cause injury – contact DPW if necessary.

Traffic Safety

  • Wear highly visible, brightly colored, or reflective clothing to alert traffic and drivers of your presence near the road.
  • Where possible, stay out of the street. Work from the curbside and watch for traffic.
  • Do not inspect or clear drains at night.
  • Do not go into storm drains and do not block travel lanes.
  • Work facing traffic.
  • Be aware of your surroundings, make sure to watch for cars; whenever possible, work with a partner who can watch for traffic hazards while you are cleaning the storm drain.

 

Any questions? Reach out to adoptadrain@baysidewi.gov.

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