News post

As part of our commitment to environmental stewardship and maintaining community infrastructure, Fort Bend County MUD 151 is highlighting the importance of stormwater management.

Stormwater is precipitation that does not soak into the ground but instead runs off surfaces like our roofs, lawns, driveways, and sidewalks. As it flows toward the drainage system, it can easily pick up debris, chemicals, dirt, and other common pollutants.

Unlike wastewater, which goes to a treatment facility. Whatever enters our storm sewer system flows untreated directly into local water bodies, including the streams, creeks, rivers, and lakes used for swimming, fishing, and our drinking water supply.

Protect Our Drainage System: Keep Storm Drains Clear

When yard waste like grass clippings and leaves are washed or blown into storm sewer inlets, it blocks or delays water drainage. This can result in street flooding and ponding near driveways.

Please note that blowing yard debris into the streets is a violation of stormwater regulations. Residents are urged to adopt these simple best practices to help keep our system clean and prevent local flooding:

• Manage Yard Waste: Sweep up grass clippings from paved surfaces and dispose of them properly. Compost or mulch yard waste when possible, and rake leaves regularly to keep them out of streets and gutters.

• Use Chemicals Sparingly: Apply pesticides and fertilizers minimally so excess chemicals do not wash into the storm drain during the next rain event.

• Secure Trash: Ensure all household trash and recyclables are properly secured and disposed of to prevent them from becoming windblown litter.

Practice Healthy Household Habits

Storm drains are for rainwater only. Homeowners can significantly protect our local water bodies by making a few adjustments to daily routines:

• Clean Up Automotive Spills: Use absorbent materials to clean up spilled automotive fluids immediately; never rinse them into a nearby storm drain.

• Recycle Fluids: Dispose of used motor oil and other automotive fluids at authorized service or recycling stations.

• Pick Up After Pets: Always pick up pet waste when walking your dog and dispose of it properly in a trash receptacle.

• Drain Pools Correctly: When emptying your pool or spa, drain it directly into the sanitary sewer system rather than out into the street gutter. Thank you for doing your part to keep our neighborhood clean and our local waterways healthy!