Sometimes, protecting our local streams starts with something as simple as a little yellow fish sticker.
On September 5, Hoy/Scott Watershed Society volunteers were out marking storm drains in the Runnel Drive and Burnside Place areas of Coquitlam. The goal was simple: remind residents that water flowing into a storm drain can make its way directly into our local waterways and salmon-bearing streams.
A reminder where it matters
Earlier this year, Scott Creek experienced a spill, highlighting how quickly pollutants can become a concern for our local waterways. At the same time, new pavement along portions of Runnel Drive had covered some of the older fish decals that had served as reminders to residents.
It was a good opportunity to replace those faded or covered markers with bright, new reminders.
We also added several markers on Burnside Place, where street drainage flows toward the same creek.
These markers carry an important message: storm drains are connected to our waterways. Unlike wastewater that goes through treatment systems, stormwater can flow directly into streams, creeks and rivers. Anything that enters a storm drain — including oil, chemicals, litter and other pollutants — has the potential to affect aquatic ecosystems and the wildlife that depends on them.
Small action, big impact
A big thank you to our volunteer Robbin, who spent the morning installing the new markers.
It may seem like a small project, but these simple reminders can make a real difference by encouraging residents to think twice about what goes onto our streets and into storm drains.
Keeping pollutants out of our stormwater system helps protect the Hoy/Scott watershed, salmon habitat and the many species that rely on healthy streams.
See a spill? Report it.
If you see a spill or pollution entering a local waterway, please report it as soon as possible. Quick action can help reduce the potential impact on our streams and wildlife.
Not sure who to contact? Visit the Hoy/Scott Watershed Society's Contact page for information on reporting spills and other watershed concerns.
Every one of us has a role to play in protecting our local waterways — and sometimes, it starts with noticing that little yellow sticker beside the storm drain.
Left: Burnside Place; and right: Runnel Drive in Coquitlam.