Adopt-a-Drain Program

To inquire further, please fill out our contact form or call us at (269) 337-8000.

Email DrainKeepers@kalamazoocity.org

- Call 311 (when in the City) or 269-337-8000 (when outside the City)

- Use this QR CODE to access the online Stormwater Marker Map

An adopt-a-drain program (AADP) is a volunteer-supported program aimed at keeping our stormwater system healthy. It consists of resident volunteers keeping their storm drain clear of debris to allow water to move through the system.

Adopting a drain is a simple and impactful way to support clean water in our community.

In Kalamazoo, drains flow directly into local rivers, lakes, and streams - without any treatment. Protecting Our Waterways, Empowering Our Community 1 DROP at a TIME!

Serving to protect our local waterways, the Adopt-a-Drain Program is vital for the City of Kalamazoo, MI. The program prevents pollution and reduces the risk of flooding.

• Combat Nonpoint Source Pollution: Stormwater runoff, which is not treated before it enters our lakes, rivers, and streams, is a significant source of pollutants. Urban land uses contribute major sediment and nutrient loads to watersheds. By clearing debris, participants directly reduce this contamination.
• Minimize & Mitigate Flooding: Kalamazoo has a history of periodic severe flooding, experienced in 1858, 1880, 1896, 1897, 1904, 1908, 1947, 2008, and 2018, leading to significant damage. Keeping drains clear helps prevent localized flooding and ensures the stormwater system functions properly.
• Safeguard Drinking Water Sources: Kalamazoo County relies heavily on groundwater. Protecting these sources from contamination is paramount, as anything on paved surfaces can wash into drains and ultimately impact surface waters and groundwater. The City has a Wellhead Protection Program to safeguard groundwater used for drinking.
• Foster Community Stewardship: The program encourages public participation and environmental stewardship, aligning with the City's broader goals for stormwater management, hazard mitigation, and public education. It provides a measurable way for citizens to contribute directly to improving water quality and community resilience.
  

Physically healthy residents capable of using tools, bending, lifting, etc.

All participants must sign a liability waiver prior to any work being performed.

• Only children supervised by a participating AADP trained adult for preparation and active clearing efforts.
• An authorized parent or guardian must sign a waiver for participants less than 18 years old.

• Streets with low traffic and Speed Limits of 30 MPH or less
• Local residential roads
• Approved streets by the City of Kalamazoo
• Storm drains that are easily accessible and undamaged

Identify nearby DRAINS to ADOPT using this Link for Enrollment and Map.

Click on the GIS Adopt-A-Drain MAP to begin filling out the adoption FORM. - Don't forget to pick out a fun name for your drain! (Hey, that rhymes!)

You must download and sign the Liability Waiver Form before approval.

Keep watch on your adopted drain! Use the link below access the AADP System.

When cleaning a drain, it is important to have and use specific safety equipment to protect yourself and ensure the task is performed safely.

• Reflective safety vest or shirt
• Gloves or work gloves
• Safety shoes or closed-toe shoes
• Long pants
  

When cleaning a drain, it is important to have and use the proper tools to protect yourself and ensure the task is performed safely.

• Orange cones or barrier tape
• Wagon or rolling pail
• Trash grabber
• Broom and/or rake
• Shovel
• Dustpan
• Snow shovel
• Large bucket or yard waste bag
  

Remember to always prioritize safety, work with a partner, and avoid clearing drains during storms or in unsafe conditions.

When encountering or suspecting hazardous waste in a drain, safety is paramount. The City of Kalamazoo emphasize the direct handling by volunteers is strictly prohibited, and immediate reporting to authorities is the primary action.

• Do Not Touch or Attempt to Handle Hazardous Waste
• Immediately Report the Discovery
• Prioritize Your Safety and Stop Work
• Understand What Constitutes Hazardous Waste
• Proper Disposal of Non-Hazardous Waste
  

For all your questions and more information

- Email DrainKeepers@kalamazoocity.org

Go to ProtectYourWater.net/contact/

- Call 311 (when in the City) or 269-337-8000 (when outside the City)

Take a SELFIE with your adopted drain! Post your award-winning photos to social media/Facebook and tag us @kalamzoocity.org

• When the drain appears clogged under the grate, broken, or isnot working properly.
• For illegal dumping or other environmental pollution nearby.
• For hazardous waste, chemicals or flammable spills; call 9-1-1 ASAP.
  

Labeling drains with drain "markers" reminds people that the drains empty stormwater runoff directly into our local waterways (no filter, no treatment). Contact us to label drains as an individual or with a group.



Protecting Our Waterways, Empowering Our Community
1 DROP at a TIME!