Storm sewers are made to “drain the rain.” Their job is to carry rainwater to nearby lakes and rivers. They’re not made to carry litter, oil, pesticides, and other gunk to lakes and rivers.
The best way to prevent ooze and gunk from getting into our storm sewers is to avoid dumping them on the ground in the first place. Don’t spill oil or chemicals on the ground. Don’t overuse pesticides and fertilizers. Pick up after your dogs. And don’t litter.
In other words…“Lose the ooze.”
Storm sewers are made to “drain the rain.” If it rains too fast for the sewers to handle all of the water, flooding can result.
Photo: USDA NRCS