Since 2016, volunteers have put the message "No Dumping – Drains to Waterway" onto over 700 of storm inlets to help reduce illegal dumping of pollutants into the storm sewer system.
Get Involved
Groups may schedule an Inlet Marking Event by contacting the Storm Water team (361) 826-1863 or pollutionprevention@cctexas.com. Individuals may also request that a marker be placed on storm drains near their home or business.
How Marking Drains makes a difference
Putting trash or disposing of liquids, such as motor oil or paint, into the storm drain is the same as throwing it right into our creeks, streams, and bays. Marking storm drains helps inform others about the connection between the storm inlet and our local waterways. Storm inlet marking may also reduce improper and illegal disposal of materials into the storm drains. It is a visual reminder that only storm water should go down the drain.
After heavy rains, storm water runs off our streets and parking lots into storm drains, picking up leaves, debris and litter along the way. These materials clog the pipes causing streets to flood. Storm water also collects excess pesticides, fertilizers, pet waste, and other substances. These can be harmful to aquatic life and may also pose a health threat to people that come into contact with the water.
When storm drain inlet marker events are organized, the participants in the event also have the opportunity to learn more about the connection between the storm drains and our creeks, rivers, and bays and how they can prevent storm water pollution at home.
Two women gluing storm inlet marker into the sidewalk.
No dumping storm drain marker with fish.
No dumping storm drain marker with frog.
Group photo of Storm Inlet Marking Program volunteers.
