San Mateo Engages Neighborhoods In 'Adopt-A-Drain' Program

SAN MATEO, CA — The City of San Mateo has launched an Adopt-A-Drain program. This program endeavors to engage residents in protecting the environment, managing storm water, protecting water quality and minimizing flooding. Volunteer drain adopters can take ownership of storm drains in their neighborhoods to keep them clean and free of obstructions. Residents can team up with friends and business owners to protect all the drains on their block. Adopters can alert the City of maintenance needs early on, allowing the City to respond rapidly to prevent flooding damage.

“With the rain recently coming down, I am reminded that Adopt-A-Drain is an important new way to protect and build a stronger community together” said Mayor Rick Bonilla. “Using the website map is a great new way for volunteers to connect with the City and with their neighbors. I adopted my drain as soon as I heard about the program.”

By keeping storm drains clear, volunteers help prevent flooding of roads and sidewalks during fall and winter storms while allowing the City to focus its resources on other storm-related issues. Keeping drains clean throughout the year also boosts water quality in streams and the bay by reducing the amount of debris and trash flowing through storm drains.

Adopters agree to check on their storm drains and keep the tops of their drains clear of leaves and other litter. The program includes an online sign up and map of all adoptable drains in the City where volunteers can select the drains they wish to adopt. When a person adopts a storm drain, they have a fun opportunity to “Name Your Drain” and post a “Photo of Adopter & Drain."

— SUBMITTED FOR PUBLICATION BY: City of San Mateo / Patch file photo by Renee Schiavone