SPICER, Minn. - A grant to help curb excessive algae growth and maintain area water quality is helping launch a project dubbed “Adopt-a-Drain.”
A play on the similarly named Adopt-a-Highway, the initiative allows for citizens and groups to select a storm drain to keep clear of organic materials and debris that could make their way into lakes and rivers.
The Middle Fork Crow River Watershed District received the grant to fund the project - which originated in St. Paul - for members of the Atwater, Spicer, New London and Willmar communities.
Leaves, grass clippings and other organic materials often make their way into the 723 storm drains in the four cities.
Organic materials, carried by stormwater into water sources, stimulate the growth of algae because of phosphorous given off during decomposition.
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City officials hope that the program will inspire citizens to think about water quality in the area and to be more conscious about preventing water pollution.
Sean Christensen, Willmar city engineer, said in a news release, “With acres of pavement, rooftops, and hundreds of storm drains, a little awareness and help from citizens is always welcome.”
Members of the community who adopt drains are asked to keep them clear of any debris sitting on top of the duct.
Adopters will also receive a yard sign to help raise awareness of pollutants in water, as well as a list of ways to help neighbors prevent debris from reaching drains.
In New London, city staff members were the first group to adopt a storm drain. Trudie Guptill, New London city clerk, said in the news release that the program will help teach citizens about the benefits of keeping area water clean. “We felt we should be good role models for our residents.”
Interested citizens can sign up online by entering their address and finding nearby drains to adopt.
