November 11, 2017: It’s the perfect time of year to be outside! If you want to plan an outdoor service project with a group of friends, or if you’re looking for a big group activity like an Eagle Project, you should consider the SWIM (Storm Water Inlet Marking) program.
Did you know that everything that goes into the storm drains on your street ends up in Galveston Bay? The water isn’t treated; it just pours right into the ocean. Many people don’t realize this, though, and they pour old paint or oil into the drains, or dump garbage into them.
SWIM is run by the state and the county, and its goal is to mark every storm drain in Harris County with a bright emblem that says, “No Dumping – Flows to Galveston Bay.” More than 41,000 markers have been placed so far, but there are many more to go.
You can sign up with your group and say how many markers you want to install. You’ll get markers and glue, and you can borrow gloves; scrub brushes; and safety vests, flags, and cones. All you do is put the special glue on the back and press down hard, and the markers will stay in place for years. They really help remind people to keep pollutants and trash out of the drains. If you try this, please comment and tell us whether you’d recommend it as a service project, and whether you have any tips.
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