Storm Drain Awareness

Did you know ... water and anything else that goes into the storm drains in St. Clair Shores empties directly into Lake St. Clair?

Did you know... your drinking / faucet water comes from Lake St. Clair.

Did you know ... chemicals and other hazardous products that go into the storm sewers and into the lake have harmful effects on the fish, other aquatic life, wildlife and human health.

The Storm Drain Awareness Program reflects the desires of its members to protect our aquatic resources for current and future generations.

TO VOLUNTEER FOR STORM DRAIN STENCILING PROGRAM, PLEASE CALL THE ST. CLAIR SHORES PUBLIC WORKS DEPARTMENT AT (586) 445-5363 OR FOR INFORMATION ON HOW YOU CAN JOIN THE COMMITTEE PLEASE CALL THE ST. CLAIR SHORES CITY CLERK'S OFFICE AT (586) 445-5200 OR E-MAIL THE COMMITTEE DIRECTLY AT scswateradvisory@lycos.com

What Each of Us Can Do to Reduce Non-Source Point Pollution

• Clean up after you pets to avoid pathogens from being washed into the sewers.
• Limit your use of water when raining to reduce the amount of water discharges into the lake.
• Direct water runoff from your roof into lawns, flowerbeds or other vegetation areas rather than paved areas. Direct Gutters at least 5 feet from your home to prevent infiltration into the weeping tiles.
• Use phosphate-free laundry and dishwasher detergent. Phosphates encourage algae growth, which can reduce other aquatic life.
• Try non-toxic products such as baking soda or vinegar for household cleaning.
• Wash your car only when absolutely necessary and use a biologically friendly soap sparingly.
• Keep fertilizers off paved areas to prevent rainwater washing the chemicals into the sewers.
• If you use a professional lawn care service, select a company that uses fertilizers sparingly and properly.
• Reduce oil pollution and fix car leaks! A single gallon of used motor or transmission oil has the potential of contaminating thousands of gallons of water. Recycle used oil and antifreeze by taking them to service stations and other recycling centers. St. Clair Shores Department of Public Works, 19700 Pleasant between 7:00 A.M. and 3:30 P.M. phone (586) 445-5363.
• Boat owners must use caution when applying cleansers, anti-fouling compounds, or paints and when fueling.
• Never pour toxic household chemicals down the drain or on the ground. Take them to a hazardous waste collection center. Macomb County Health Department, 43525 Elizabeth Rd., Mt. Clemens phone (586) 459-5236 for more information.
• Conserve water. Install a water saving showerhead. Place two half gallon plastic bottles filled with water in the toilet tank. Check for leaky faucets and repair them. Put a trigger nozzle on your outdoor hose; it uses water more efficiently and will save money on your water bill.
• If you live on the water, contour your lawn with a simple swale and berm system to reduce direct runoff into the water.
• Participate in river, lake and beach cleanups. To volunteer for the next Nautical Coast Cleanup, call (586) 779-8777.
• Encourage awareness of non-point source pollution among your family members, neighbors, friends and co-workers.
• Do something every day to help ensure that our children and grandchildren will have clean water.

Links to More Information

Storm Drain Stenciling Program
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