Managing Your Stormwater
Want clean swimming beaches?
Want shellfish safe to eat?
Want to save your city or town money?
When it rains, water entering storm drains carries trash, pet waste, and other pollutants to our ponds, rivers, and the bay.
Remember: Only Rain Down the Storm Drain!
Pets
Pet waste contains harmful bacteria that can pollute wetlands and the Bay.
- Whether in your yard or on a walk always pick up after your pet and put it in the trash.
Your Stormwater
Excessive stormwater flow move pollutants and harmful sediments to the Bay.
- Redirect stormwater to lawns and gardens.
- Install a rain barrel to catch and reuse rainwater (and if you do, make sure your drain it before the next rain).
Lawn and Garden
Fertilizer and pesticides run off your lawn into the storm drain and then into the Bay.
- Use pesticides and fertilizers sparingly and read the label
- Don't overwater and don't fertilize before it rains.
Auto Care
Car washing at home can release detergents and petroleum products to the Bay.
- Use a commercial carwash or wash your car on the lawn.
- Pour soapy water down the sink.
Our Stormwater Mailer and Flyer
We created two versions of our "only rain down the storm drain" campaign flyers and mailers.
One page flyer with beach closure sign.
Additional resources
University of Massachusetts Turf Care websiteCommonwealth of Massachusetts Department of Agriculture lawn care for pesticide applicators brochure
USDA Lawn and Garden Tips
Massachusetts Organic Accredited Land Care Professionals