Remember to Protect City Storm Drains By Keeping Grass Clippings Off the Streets

The City of Fort Worth is reminding residents to help protect the stormwater drain system by keeping grass clippings off of the streets this spring.

The city put out a blog on the subject on Tuesday. According to the post, residents should remember to keep grass clippings and other yard debris off of the streets in the coming months.

This matters because grass clippings, leaves, and other yard debris can accumulate in the street after yard maintenance. When rain falls, that debris flows into storm drains, clogging the stormwater drain system.

That can lead to flooding in streets, sidewalks, lawns, and even homes. Not only that, but grass clippings release phosphorus as they decompose. That nutrient can trigger algae growth and harm nearby creeks, rivers, and streams.

So, by properly disposing of grass clippings, residents are helping protect the city’s water supply and avoiding potential fines.

Here are the three main ways residents can help.

Bag grass clippings and yard debris and place them on the curb.Leave grass clippings on the lawn so they can turn into mulch and natural fertilizer while helping the soil retain moisture.Compost the grass clippings by raking them into a pile.

Residents can report violations of this and other city ordinances by using the MyFW app or by calling 817-392-1234.

Learn more about grass clippings and stormwater quality by visiting the city’s Stormwater Quality webpage.