Towns need information in order to know how to shape their stormwater programs.

• If you see a violation, such as someone pouring something down a stormdrain, call your town to report it.


• Call your town to volunteer your services for any of the projects suggested below.

Many people are not aware that stormdrain systems do not treat the water that flows through them. You can help.

• Contact Save The Bay to let them know you’re willing to help organize a stormdrain marking event. They have detailed information.


• Advertise the event. The Resources (link) page of this website can offer help with press releases and articles.


• Conduct the stormdrain marking. Save The Bay offers detailed instructions and handouts, which are available in the Resources (link) page of this website.

For more information about how to organize your own stormdrain marking, check out our detailed plan, How You Can Help Your Neighbors Become Aware of Stormdrains!

Pet waste is a nuisance that also pollutes surface waters, contributing bacteria and nutrients. It is important to convey to our neighbors that they should pick up their pet’s waste and that it’s easy to do.

• Recruit your friends and other neighborhood organizations to help raise money for a pet waste station that could be placed in a local park or popular dog-walking area. They cost about $300-$400. Contact your municipality to offer your services with the installation and maintenance.


• Get a pet waste ordinance adopted. The Resources (link) page of this website can offer help with a model ordinance, supporting educational materials, and a press release.


• Advertise the ordinance adoption. The Resources (link) page of this website can offer help with press releases and articles.

For more information about how to organize a pet waste station installation, check out our detailed plan, How You Can Help Your Neighbors Scoop The Poop!

Not only do rain barrels help collect some roof runoff that can be recycled for irrigation, but they also are a way to show your neighbors that you care about stormwater issues. You can help make others aware of rain barrels by organizing a town-wide sale.

• Contact a rain barrel distributor such as New England Rain Barrel or Great American Rain Barrel to discuss their bulk rates, bulk distribution options, and ordering information.

For more detailed information about how to organize a rain barrel sale, check out our factsheet, Rain Barrel Purchasing Information and a sample flyer used by the City of Newport Water Division when they sponsored a rain barrel sale.