How To Mark A Storm Drain

• Divide volunteers into small groups and provide each group with a map of the storm drains. We recommend indicating the drains that each group is responsible for on the map.
• Review safety precautions such as staying out of the street, being mindful of traffic, and wearing reflective vests and protective gloves at all times.
• Prepare the area where you plan to place the marker by brushing off any excess dirt or debris with a brush or broom.

• Using gloves, apply adhesive to the back of the marker in an even bead around the outside edge. Place the marker on the curb (facing pedestrians) and push down hard in the center with a twisting motion forcing adhesive out from the edge.
• Do not apply markers to curbs that are painted yellow, as the markers come off when the paint peels. Try to find a flat surface near the drain if there is no curb available.
• A storm drain data card will help you to keep a record of your work! Use it to record the types of trash found near the storm drain for publicity purposes, the number of storm drains marked, and the streets where they were located for the town’s records.
• Volunteers should be encouraged to pick up litter along the way as it will eventually reach local water bodies, if it enters the drains. Arrange for proper disposal of all trash collected.

Preparing for a Storm Drain Marking Event is a preparation checklist with more detailed information, including an equipment checklist.