Stormwater drains are meant for water, not waste

Stormwater drains are designed to carry rainwater away from streets and properties to help prevent flooding. They are not intended for disposing of chemicals or pollutants. When chemicals, such as paints, oils, cleaning agents, or pesticides, are poured down stormwater drains, they directly enter the environment without any treatment. This can have serious environmental consequences.

Stormwater drains flow directly into rivers, lakes, and oceans. In the Manawatu's case, stormwater flows into the Oroua River and Makino Stream.

This means that chemicals dumped into stormwater drains can pollute waterways, harm aquatic life, and damage ecosystems. Even small amounts of toxic substances can have a lasting impact on the environment.

It’s a timely reminder as many people are cleaning up their properties and getting them ready for the summer season to be mindful of how water and chemicals are disposed of.

“You might be emptying your pool, washing your house, spraying decks or paths and not aware of where that water is going”, Kerry Frost, MDC’s Three Waters Technician explains.  “Easy ways to mitigate the contamination levels are simple steps like washing your car on grass to allow the lawn to naturally filter the water, soap or chemicals.”

The drainage bylaw indicates the connections for the discharge of swimming pools or spa pool water should be to the wastewater network.  For those that have exception, the disposal of the water should be in a controlled manner such that it can soak into the ground.

Hazardous substances should not go into the wastewater drain either; always check the product disposal instructions. By disposing of chemicals properly you help protect the environment, preserve biodiversity, and prevent long-term pollution.

Always remember; stormwater drains are meant for water, not waste. Responsible disposal of chemicals is essential to safeguarding our natural resources for future generations.