Northbrook Boy Scout Helps Install New Storm Drain Markers

The following article was submitted by Nick Abbott:

NEW STORM DRAIN MARKERS APPEAR IN NORTHBROOK

Volunteers affiliated with Northbrook Boy Scout Troop 64 have been working in our neighborhoods recently to install new “Dump No Waste” markers on Village storm sewer drains. These markers help remind Village residents that the storm sewers in Northbrook drain to local waterways such as the North Branch of the Chicago River, and that it is important to prevent pollutants from entering these waterways via the storm drains. You may have already observed these markers on some streets; the volunteer effort underway this month will expand the geographic distribution of these markers - concentrating on residential areas within one-half mile east and west of the North Branch of the Chicago River. More than 100 new markers will be installed in this area. This effort is being led by Troop 64 Scout Nick Abbott, as part of a service project to help complete his Eagle Scout requirements.

As urbanization and the construction of streets have occurred within the Village, a network of inlets, pipes and outlets were installed which direct the flow of rainwater into the nearest local waterway. Because water in this system is not treated, it is very important that nothing except rainwater enters the system through the inlets located near residents’ homes. Stormwater runoff from urban areas may contain sediments, fertilizers, pesticides, bacteria, motor oil and other pollutants generated by various land uses and human activities. When left uncontrolled, this pollution can result in the impairment or destruction of fish, wildlife and aquatic life habitats, a loss in aesthetic value and threats to public safety and health. The storm drain markers remind Village residents to not put motor oil, grease, fertilizer, grass, leaves and other debris, fluids or materials into the stormwater inlets, thereby reducing or eliminating some sources of stormwater pollution. Storm drain marking also helps the Village to fulfill the goals of the EPA’s National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System program under the Clean Water Act (see this link for more information: http://cfpub.epa.gov/npdes/stormwater/menuofbmps/index.cfm?action=browse&Rbutton=detail&bmp=15 )

This volunteer effort has been planned and is being conducted in cooperation with the Village of Northbrook Department of Public Works, and is entirely self funded. Questions may be directed to the Department of Public Works, (847) 272-4711.

Photo courtesy of Nick Abbott