The Adopt-a-Drain program is a volunteer, community-based initiative designed to protect our local waterways and improve stormwater management. Through this program, residents, businesses, and organizations can “claim” a specific storm drain and commit to keeping the surface of the grate clear of debris. By taking a few minutes each month to maintain these drains, volunteers play a vital role in keeping our neighborhood clean and our infrastructure functioning efficiently.
Lakewood is part of a much larger network dedicated to environmental stewardship. While we are proud to host this program, we are in good company:
Participating in Adopt-a-Drain provides dual benefits by supporting both our city’s physical infrastructure and our community’s social fabric. On a technical level, it supplements MS4 permit requirements, reduces flooding, and decreases the wear and tear on our pipes by improving stormwater quality.
Beyond the pipes, the program drives long-term behavior change. It fosters neighborhood pride and normalizes the idea of community stewardship. A cleaner community is more attractive to new businesses and jobs, while providing a hands-on educational opportunity for students to learn about public works and the environment.
Joining is a simple, digital process. First, open the Adopt-a-Drain map link and submit an adoption request for your chosen drain. Once approved, you are asked to spend about 10 minutes per month (especially before heavy rain) clearing the grate and tracking your progress via the online “Cleaning Form.”
Safety is our top priority. We ask all volunteers to follow strict protocols to ensure that drain cleaning remains a safe and helpful activity for everyone involved.
When working near the road, always remain aware of your surroundings and work while facing traffic. Whenever possible, stay on the sidewalk or treelawn rather than standing in the street. We recommend working with a partner who can act as a “spotter” for vehicles. Only clean during daylight hours, wear your safety vest, and always use designated crosswalks to reach your drain.
It is critical to remember that you should only clean the surface of the grate. Never attempt to remove the grate or reach your hands inside the drain.
If you notice a drain is damaged, produces a strong odor, or has a blockage you cannot clear from the surface, contact the City of Lakewood Division of Wastewater Collection at (216) 529-1867.
