Seattle Sun Newspaper - Vol. 7, Issue 12, December 2003

Copyright 2003 Seattle Sun. Please feel free to use the article below in your research. Be sure to cite the Seattle Sun as your source.

Residents urged to keep storm drains clear

By SUSAN STOLTZFUS

Leaves and other debris which have collected in storm drains can lead to clogged gutters, flooded streets and standing water.

Seattle residents are asked to remove leaves from street drains in their neighborhoods with a rake or broom (if it can be done safely), collect fallen leaves in their yards, and compost or properly dispose of them. Those who subscribe to yard waste service may set out two extra bags on their regular collection day in November and December.

Make sure your yard waste is "clean green," without garbage or other debris. Do not place leaves in plastic bags the bags are not biodegradable. Use paper yard waste bags, a 32-gallon trash can clearly marked "yard waste" or "clean green," or bundle and tie with twine (bundles can be up to four feet in length and two feet in diameter). Seattle Public Utilities will ensure that this "clean" yard waste is appropriately recycled.

Other tips for preventing localized flooding in your neighborhood: Don't put grass clippings, leaves or other debris into the drains, ditches, creeks, culverts, gutters or ravines. (In fact, it's against the law). Clean your gutters and the drainage downspouts attached to your roof twice a year.

If there appears to be a blockage below the street surface that is not remedied by removing the leaves, call SPU's drainage and wastewater maintenance, at 386-1800.

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For more information about SPU's yard waste collection program, visit www.seattle.gov/util/services/yardwaste/Instructions.htm. If you are not a yard waste subscriber, you may call 684-3000 to subscribe. Susan Stoltzfus is a spokeswoman for Seattle Public Utilities.