Leaves and grass clippings left on the ground can clog storm drains and sewer pipes and, consequently, contribute to street flooding when it rains. Yard waste and most fertilizers can cause nutrient pollution and oxygen depletion in our streams and rivers when carried through storm drains and sewers. This hurts our waterways and the wildlife that rely on them.

Help protect our water and sewer resources by following these tips:

• Do not rake or blow leaves or grass clippings into the street.
• Do not dump yard waste or trash near or into storm drains.
• Place your leaves in a bag for curbside yard debris collection or compost them at home.
• If you have a mulching lawnmower, use it to recycle leaves and their nutrients into your lawn.
• Only apply fertilizers or pesticides if necessary and do not overapply.
• Use slow-release and organic fertilizers, which are less likely to wash away.
• Fertilize lawns in the fall to prevent nutrients washing away during spring rains.

If you see a clogged or broken storm drain, please call Dispatch at 412-255-2423 (Press 1) or contact us @pgh2o on Twitter.