City of Colorado Springs / Stormwater / News

Keep grass clippings and yard waste away from storm drains

Summer is here and that means yard maintenance season is in full swing.  The City of Colorado Springs Stormwater Engineering Division is reminding residents to keep storm drains clean and clear of yard debris.

Grass clippings and leaves blown into the street during yard maintenance end up in the nearest waterway. Stormwater runoff washes clippings and other yard waste from our streets, sidewalks and driveways into the city?s storm drains, which lead directly to creeks and rivers in the area.  This causes problems in the city?s stormwater drainage system and can lead to flooding.

Tips for lawn maintenance:

·         Do not leave or sweep grass clippings or other yard waste into streets, sidewalks, driveways or parking lots, especially around storm drains.

·         Compost or mulch yard waste. Grass clippings naturally fertilize lawns and do not cause thatch in Colorado.

·         Use pesticides, herbicides and fertilizers sparingly and follow manufacturer?s directions. Excess chemicals are washed into streams and pollute the water.

·         Do not over water lawns.

 

For more information, visit springsgov.com/stormwateror 385-5980.

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