Rutland Town wants to make clear that some of its stormwater drains flow directly into Moon Brook. So on September 9, the town is calling in volunteers to place markers on storm drains that warn, "No dumping. Drains to creek."
"Stormwater runoff occurs when excess water from rain or snowmelt does not soak into the ground," an event announcement states. "As the runoff flows over land or paved streets and parking lots, it picks up debris, chemicals, sediment or other pollutants along the way. The pollutants can end up downstream in Otter Creek and Lake Champlain and adversely affect water quality and recreational activities. Marking storm drains is one of a number of practical solutions to help keep pollutants out of stormwater."
Rutland Town is one of 13 communities charged by the Vermont Department of Environmental Conservation with taking more significant steps in controlling stormwater runoff, in an effort to reduce pollution in the greater Lake Champlain watershed.
Rultand Town is using the event as an opportunity to raise neighborhood awareness about reducing stormwater pollution. In addition to placing markers on storm drains, participants will be going door-to-door distributing information.
Rutland Town Administrator Joseph Zingale, Jr. said in a press announcement,“The volunteers who help us mark storm drains and drop off door hangers will go a long way in helping us get the word out about the dangers of dumping household wastes in storm drains.”
The town has also set up a website called Water Wise, where residents can learn more about the municipal stormwater system.
