Question:
Why is it important to keep litter and trash away from storm drains?
Quick Answer:
Trash that reaches streets, gutters and storm drains can travel beyond the place where it was dropped. Keeping loose waste contained helps prevent blocked drainage areas and keeps litter from being carried farther through the community during rain and storms.
The Journey of One Piece of Trash
A cup blows out of a container.
It lands in the street.
Wind pushes it toward the gutter.
Then rain arrives.
Something that began as one loose piece of litter can suddenly travel much farther than expected.
Storm Drains Aren’t Trash Cans
Storm drainage systems exist to move water away from streets and other areas.
Trash can interfere with that job.
Loose plastic, food packaging, cups, bags and other debris can collect around drains, particularly when rainwater begins moving material from streets and sidewalks.
Wind Matters, Too
Anyone who lives in Southern Colorado knows trash doesn’t necessarily wait for rain to start traveling.
A lightweight bag or container can move surprisingly far on a windy day.
Keeping lids closed and loose waste contained helps stop trash at the source.
What Residents Can Do
A few simple habits help:
- Keep container lids securely closed.
- Pick up loose litter around your property.
- Don’t place loose trash next to containers.
- Keep gutters and drainage areas free of waste.
- Secure lightweight materials on windy days.
These aren’t huge actions, but multiplied across a neighborhood, they matter.
FAQs
Does trash in the street really affect storm drainage?
It can. Loose debris can collect around drainage areas and interfere with water flow.
Why is lightweight trash particularly troublesome?
Bags, wrappers and lightweight containers can easily be carried by wind or moving water.
What’s the easiest way to help?
Contain household waste and pick up loose litter before it has an opportunity to travel.