Storm Drain Markers
One of the most common and most harmful sources of storm water pollution is the intentional dumping of polluting materials into storm water inlets. Many everyday items, when carelessly allowed to enter the storm water system, can create severe problems in local streams, rivers, and lakes. These materials, some of which may seem completely harmless, are frequently dumped into the storm water system by those unaware of their potential effects on surface water:

• Litter and debris
• Food and beverages
• Wash water from car washing
• Fertilizers and pesticides
• Grass clippings, leaves, weeds, and other yard waste
• Sediment
• Oil
• Animal waste

In 1995, OSEH and student volunteers began stenciling storm drains to educate members of the university community in preventing polluting materials from entering storm water inlets. The stencil was placed onto curbs adjacent to drains and carried the message, “Dump No Waste – Keep Our Michigan Waters Blue.” As years passed by, however, the paint began to wear off, making the faded stencils difficult to see and read.

In 2001, OSEH began to research new ways to make the message more visible and more permanent. As a result of their search, curb markers were found to improve the visibility of the message. The curb markers are plastic circles, four inches in diameter, which are applied to clean curb surfaces with adhesive. The message now reads, “Keep Our Michigan Waters Blue: Dump No Waste – Flows to River” and can be seen all over campus.

Since 1995, the project has grown into a campus-wide effort involving several departments, including Grounds and Waste Management. Student groups, such as EnAct, North Campus Service Day volunteers, and Residential Housing, have also participated in this project. The School of Natural Resources and Environment has assisted OSEH in developing a video and several pamphlets that provide members of the University community with a greater understanding of storm water pollution prevention issues. Currently, approximately 1,500 storm drain markers have been placed throughout the University of Michigan campus. Also, all new storm water inlets installed on campus contain the message “Dump No Waste – Drains to Waterways” engraved on them. This will ensure that the message will last indefinitely.

If you are interested in becoming involved in the storm water marking project or if you have any questions about the University’s pollution prevention programs, contact OSEH EHMM at 936-1920. Keep our Michigan Waters BLUE!