‘Only Rain Down the Storm Drain!’: City of Arcata

This is a press release from the City of Arcata:

This spring, the City of Arcata reminds community members that outdoor gutters, grates and culverts are part of the storm drain system, and anything that enters these drains flows directly into local creeks, rivers and Humboldt Bay without any treatment or filtration.

In Humboldt County, the storm drain system is completely separate from the wastewater (sewer) system. Water that enters a storm drain, stormwater, is not treated or filtered at all, unlike the water that goes down a sink, toilet or indoor drain, which is treated at a wastewater treatment facility. Stormwater is discharged straight into the environment along with pollutants it picks up from streets, trails and homes. This contamination harms fish and wildlife, degrades habitat and can make water unsafe for recreation and drinking. This spring, residents and businesses can protect stormwater by understanding the potential pollutants that can enter the storm drain system and learning how to prevent them from doing so.

Only rain should go down the storm drain. Here are some suggestions to prevent stormwater pollution:

• Good Habits: Use dry cleaning methods, such as sweeping instead of hosing down sidewalks and driveways. Keep storm drain grates and gutters clear of all debris, like yard trimmings and litter. If possible, reduce impervious surfaces like concrete and asphalt to allow water to soak into the ground.
• Pet Waste: Always scoop the poop! Dog waste contains harmful bacteria and parasites. Dispose of it in the trash, never in the yard waste bin or the toilet. Carry disposable bags when walking dogs or use the pet waste bag dispensers around Arcata. Learn more at cityofarcata.org/scoop.
• Pesticides and Fertilizers: Use garden chemicals sparingly or not at all and never apply before rain. Consider non-toxic or organic alternatives; identify the issue, then explore eco-friendly, less toxic solutions, such as compost and companion planting. Learn more lawn and garden care stormwater tips at cityofarcata.org/780/Lawn-and-Garden-Care.
• Green Waste: Properly dispose of all green waste (e.g., leaves, grass clippings, yard debris, etc.). Never sweep or blow any vegetation into gutters or drains. Find options for local green waste disposal and community composters at cityofarcata.org/294/Composting-Green-Waste-Resources. Curbside organics collection through Recology is expected to start in late 2026. Visit cityofarcata.org/sb1383 to learn more.
• Sediment and Dirt: Construction and landscaping activities should use Best Management Practices (BMPs), such as silt fencing and covering exposed soil, to prevent dirt from washing into storm drains. Learn more at cityofarcata.org/356/Contractor-or-Developer.
• Oil and Automotive Fluids: Maintain vehicles to prevent leaks. Clean up spills immediately using absorbent materials and dispose of them properly. Recycle used motor oil at certified collection centers like Franklin’s Service on Giuntoli Lane. Learn more about Auto and Household maintenance at cityofarcata.org/781/Auto-and-Household-Maintenance.

• Household Chemicals: Never pour hazardous household chemicals like cleaners, paint or paint thinners down the drain or onto the ground. Instead, take them to the Humboldt Waste Management Authority (HWMA) Transfer Station for safe and proper disposal. For more information, call their Hazardous Waste Hotline at (707) 441-2005 or visit hwma.net/hazardous-waste.
• Soaps: Soaps contain chemicals that are toxic to fish and aquatic life. When washing vehicles or equipment outdoors, aim to do so on gravel or grass where water can soak into the ground for natural filtration or use a commercial car wash.
• Litter: Ensure trash and recycling are secure to prevent litter from entering gutters and drains. Use fewer single-use disposable products whenever possible by opting for reusable options. In Arcata, customers can bring their own reusable foodware for takeout food and beverages to get a $0.25 discount on their order. Learn more at cityofarcata.org/885/Disposable-Foodware-Regulations.
• Cigarettes: Cigarette butts are toxic and frequently end up in waterways. Throw them in the trash.

Protecting storm drains helps protect public health, wildlife and the waterways that make Humboldt County such a special place to live. For more information on stormwater resources and preventing stormwater pollution, visit the City of Arcata’s website at cityofarcata.org/352/Stormwater or the North Coast Stormwater Coalition at northcoaststormwatercoalition.org. To report any spills or improper discharges into Arcata roads, storm drains, or waterways, please contact the Environmental Services Department at (707) 822-8184 or email [email protected]. For emergencies, call the local police department.