Keeping local storm drains clear of leaves can make a huge difference in street safety by preventing the pooling of water and helps prevent other issues, such as basement flooding, street pollutants entering local streams, and overflows in other drains.

Through its Adopt-A-Drain program, the City of Seattle will supply volunteers with supplies to assist in keeping drains clear.

Adopt-A-Drain volunteers will receive:

• Supplies on loan for the duration of volunteer service.
• Safety equipment.
• Storm Drain Stencil Kit.
• Educational resources.

This is an opportunity for Ballardites to join volunteers across the city who are maintaining storm drains, a critical part of the city's utility infrastructure, according to the city.

Participants commit to removing leaves and other debris from a minimum of 12 storm drains.

Adopt-A-Drain volunteers help:

• Prevent flooding in their neighborhood by keeping drains free of debris.
• Keep pollutants from entering streams, creeks and Puget Sound, which protects fish and other wildlife.
• Assist drainage crews maintaining the city's thousands of storm drains, especially during fall months when rain increases and falling leaves block drains.

To adopt a drain, click here. Call 206.684.7647 or email adoptadrain@seattle.gov with questions.