10/31/2026
VACWM's Environmental Protection Specialists/GEMS Program Manager – Clean Water Begins with You!
What is stormwater pollution? It's the toxic mix of bacteria, chemicals, metals, nutrients, and other contaminants that wash over pavement and other impervious surfaces and flow down storm drains to our waterways.
Be a Leaf Hero and keep fallen leaves out of the streets!
Do not blow or rake leaves, grass clippings, brush, and tree branches into the street. These will leach nutrients into stormwater runoff and contribute to pollution in our waters. Leaf litter can also plug storm drains and increase flooding issues. Instead, mulch or compost yard waste away from streams or other waterways or dispose of it at your local landfill.
Tip #1 Keep Fallen Leaves out of the Streets:
Leaf litter leaches nutrients into stormwater runoff and contributes to pollution in our waters.
Tip #2 Clear Storm Drains of Debris:
Leaf litter and yard debris plug storm drains and increase flooding issues.
Tip #3 Don't Dump in Ditches or Streams:
Decaying leaf litter releases excess nutrients, causing eutrophication and algal blooms.
Tip #4 Compost Leaves and Yard Clippings:
Reduce added chemicals in your yard and garden by creating a natural fertilizer with composted leaves.
Reference: www.stormwater.capecodcommission.org
