We started the Only Rain Down the Drain campaign because protecting our watershed is essential for the health of our environment, wildlife, and communities. Every time it rains, water flows across streets, sidewalks, parking lots, and neighborhoods. As this stormwater moves, it picks up pollutants such as trash, oil, chemicals, fertilizers, and other harmful substances. Unlike the water that goes down household drains, stormwater is usually not treated before entering local waterways. Instead, it flows directly into creeks, rivers, and eventually larger water systems like the Sacramento River.
This means that everyday actions—like littering, pouring chemicals outside, or leaving trash on the ground—can have a major impact on the health of our waterways. Polluted water can harm fish and wildlife, damage ecosystems, and even affect the quality of water that communities rely on. Protecting watersheds is important not only for nature, but also for the people who live in the area.
As students and members of our community, we believe that education and awareness are the first steps toward solving environmental problems. Many people simply do not realize that storm drains lead directly to natural water systems. By helping people understand how their actions affect the watershed, we can encourage responsible habits that reduce pollution and protect local water sources.
Through our campaign, we aim to inspire people—especially students—to take an active role in protecting the environment. By organizing presentations, creating educational tools like games and videos, participating in cleanups, and sharing information with our community, we hope to show that even small actions can make a big difference.
Our mission is simple: make sure that only rain goes down the drain. By spreading awareness and encouraging responsible choices, we can help keep our waterways clean, protect wildlife habitats, and ensure a healthier environment for future generations. 🌎💧
Only Rain Down the Drain 