Scouts, University Volunteers Mark Storm Drain Inlets

Posted by Staff | @CorridorNews | @Corridor_Sports

Community youth and Texas State University volunteers joined forces last weekend to install permanent reminders that trash on the street washes directly into our streams and rivers.

Boy Scout Troop 112 and members of the Texas State University Human Environmental Animal Team (HEAT) installed metal storm drain inlet markers on Saturday, Dec. 6 in the Castle Forest neighborhood during an event co-sponsored by the City of San Marcos and Texas State University.

The markers have a “No Dumping, Drains to River” message to remind residents to keep trash, yard waste, and other pollutants from entering the storm drain system.

“Curb inlets are direct pathways to the drainage system and to our rivers and creeks,” said Texas State Stormwater Specialist Colleen Cook.  “In cooperation with the  City, Scouts and HEAT volunteers, we are raising public awareness of this connection.”

In all, 32 storm drains were marked with three-inch metal markers, and 200 informational door hangers were placed on residents’ homes.  Information on the hangers was given in both English and Spanish. 

“The door hangers give practical tips on how to reduce stormwater pollution while drawing residents’ attention to the newly installed markers,” said Shawn Wolfshohl, Stormwater Systems Manager for the City of San Marcos. 

In addition to installing storm drain markers, the Scouts and HEAT volunteers picked up approximately 100 pounds of trash from the streets, a drainage channel and two detention ponds in the neighborhood.  

Events such as this help the City and Texas State satisfy their respective MS4 permit requirements for public participation, outreach, and involvement as outlined in their stormwater management plans. 

If you have a group that would like to participate in a storm drain marking event, please contact Shawn Wolfshohl at the City of San Marcos, 512.393.8019, or Colleen Cook at Texas State University, 512.245.6122, for more information.