Only Rain Down the Drain!

Published on July 10, 2024

The warm seasons in Wyandotte County/Kansas City, Kansas, can bring fast-changing weather patterns. A storm can move in and start pouring down rain in a matter of hours.

Without stormwater management, this rain can flood our streets, homes, and businesses. That is why Public Works' Water Pollution Control and Stormwater Management teams work hard to maintain 335 miles of stormwater pipes and nearly 13,000 storm drains, all of which carry that water to our rivers and streams.

There are ways you can help! Check out these actions that can help prevent backups and overflows in your area:

Check the storm drains near you
Trash left on the ground is often picked up by stormwater runoff and carried to storm drains that can then become blocked. If you see a drain in your area clogged with trash or other debris, clean it out and move it away from the drain if it is safe. If it becomes too much to handle on your own, dial 3-1-1 and ask to speak with Public Works' Stormwater Management professionals.

Do not litter
Put all trash in a wastebasket, trash can, or dumpster. Do not dump trash or trash bags into storm drains, rivers, or streams. Additionally, picking up loose litter and trash found in our streets and yards can prevent that same garbage from clogging storm drains and making its way to our streams and rivers.

Check your lawn care routine
Leave grass clippings and leaves in place, do not put them down storm drains. If you must remove grass, leaves, branches, or garden clippings from your yard, you can drop them off at the Unified Government’s Recycling & Yard Waste Center.