Simple plaques help raise awareness of how street litter can enter our rivers

Litter on our streets doesn’t just stay there – it can affect our waterways and drinking water.

Did you know that there are approximately 72,000 stormwater inlets on Philly streets that collect rainwater that flows into the drainage system? In Philadelphia, we have a combined sewer system that drains directly to our local waterways during heavy rain events.

The Philadelphia Water Department created the Storm Drain Marking Program to help residents draw the connection between our streets and waterways. You can request a storm drain marking kit here.

There are seven diverse waterways within Philadelphia. They all are a part of the Delaware Watershed, which spans four states.

The Storm Drain Markers each feature local wildlife with a waterway:

• American Shad (Delaware Direct)
• Damsel Fly (Pennypack)
• River Otter (Schuylkill)
• Blue Heron (Tookany-Tacony-Frankford)
• Red Salamander (Wissahickon)
• Shortnose Sturgeon (Darby-Cobbs)
• Bog Turtle (Poquessing) 

Where are the Storm Drain Markers?

Philadelphia Water has an interactive map where you can find outlets in your neighborhood. The map distinguishes which storm drains are marked or unmarked.

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Julie Hancher is the co-founder and Executive Director of Green Philly, an independent media organization making sustainability accessible, affordable and actionable. Since launching Green Philly in 2008, she has grown it from a passion project into a leading voice for local climate storytelling, pairing impactful journalism with community events and experiences. Julie is a frequent speaker on climate, media innovation and the future of local journalism, and is the creator of SustainPHL and EcoFair. Outside of Green Philly, you can find her hiking, biking, traveling, or exploring Philadelphia. View all posts by Julie Hancher