Want to help improve the cleanliness of your neighborhood?

In partnership with the Mystic River Watershed (MyWRA), Arlington’s Adopt-a-Drain program asks volunteers to take care of storm drains (catch basins) to prevent street flooding and pollution in local waterbodies. Volunteers check on the drain before and after heavy rain, wind, or snow.

Why does Arlington need me to adopt a storm drain?

There are over 3,000 storm drains in Arlington. While the Arlington Department of Public Works regularly cleans the inside of storm drains, the outside of catch basins frequently gets clogged with leaves and trash. 

During storms and after heavy snow melts, water flows down the street and into drains, where it enters the stormwater system. Debris like leaves and litter, plus snow and ice, can get caught in these grates and prevent the water from draining properly. This can lead to flooding and pollution of our waterways, such as the Mystic River. You can help by adopting a catch basin in your neighborhood. This means you'll be responsible for keeping the grate clean of debris. 

How do I take care of my storm drain? 

• Keep safe! Stay on the sidewalk while cleaning. 

• Use a rake or shovel to remove leaves, twigs, and other debris. 

• Bag the debris and put it in the trash or with your yard waste. (When curbside yard waste collection is not occurring, bag yard waste to be place at the curb when those collections return in April).

• Monitor the drain during storm events to make sure it doesn't clog up again. 

How can I Adopt a Drain?

Follow these simple steps to get started. 

Anyone may clean any drain at any time even if it claimed by someone else. It will take many volunteers to keep our 3,000 catch basins clear. 

How can I learn more about stormwater and our environment?

Please visit the Stormwater Information page.