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1. Can grass clippings clog a storm drain?

Yes, leaves and grass clippings can clog the storm drain and cause flooding.

What can you do to help?

• Mow often and bag clippings if possible to prevent clippings from running into storm drains.
• Do not sweep or blow landscape debris into the street. Rain can wash it into the storm drains. Rake or sweep the debris into a bag for composting or curbside pickup.
• Never allow any pesticides, yard waste, or fertilizer to enter a storm drain.
• Avoid the overuse of pesticides and fertilizers. Follow directions and use wisely. Consult your local extension services at 501-623-6841.
• Pull weeds by hand when possible. 
• When property is adjacent to a body of water, do not deposit or blow yard wastes into the water.

2. What can be put down a storm drain?

Anything other than rainwater being put down the storm drain is a violation of City ordinance.

3. Where does the storm drain system lead?

The City’s storm drain system conveys unfiltered stormwater runoff directly into Hot Springs’ creeks, and ultimately into Lake Hamilton.

4. Can littered cigarettes cause issues with the City's storm drain system?

Tests show one cigarette butt in two gallons of water will release enough chemicals to kill 80% of aquatic life. 

One cigarette butt with tobacco remaining will kill 100% of aquatic life.

5. Do neighborhoods generate more stormwater than wooded areas?

Because of impervious surfaces like pavement and rooftops, a typical city block generates more than five times more runoff than a woodland area of the same size.

6. What do I do about leftover paint?

• Avoid buying too much paint. Careful planning can save money and reduce the need to dispose of leftover product.
• Avoid using solvents for clean-up. use disposable brushes, rollers, trays and containers. Allow them to dry and dispose of them in the trash.
• Before cleaning brushes, brush out as much paint as possible.
• Never dispose of excess paint, wash waters or solvents into a storm drain.

7. What does automotive care have to do with stormwater?

Hazardous chemicals including soap, oil, grease, and even brake dust can cause great harm to aquatic life.

What can you do to help?

• Identify storm drain inlets that are near your work area. Be aware that no dumping is allowed.
• Inspect vehicles for drips and spills. use drip pans or other secondary containment for leaking fluids. Always clean spills using rags or other absorbents.
• Properly dispose of waste oil and other hazardous materials. Automotive retailers will recycle waste oil and other hazardous materials.
• Most commercial car washes and car dealers are equipped with drains that convey wash water to a treatment facility or into a sanitary sewer system.
• If washing your car at home, wash in the grass. Grass is a great natural filter.