Stormwater Tips 2026
June 2026
đźš« Keep It Out of the Storm Drain! đźš«
The City of Valdosta Stormwater Division would like to remind property owners, businesses, and landscape maintenance contractors that grass clippings, leaves, litter, and other debris should never be blown, swept, or washed into streets, gutters, or storm drains.
Everything that enters a storm drain flows directly to our local creeks, rivers, and wetlands—without treatment. Debris can clog drainage systems, contribute to localized flooding, and negatively impact water quality and wildlife habitat.
âś… Properly collect and dispose of leaves, grass clippings, and litter.
âś… Keep parking lots, sidewalks, and landscaped areas clean.
âś… Ensure landscaping activities do not result in debris entering the stormwater system.
Property owners are encouraged to communicate these expectations to contractors performing work on their behalf.
Remember: Only rain should go down the storm drain!
Working together, we can help keep Valdosta’s waterways clean and our drainage systems functioning properly.
May 2026
As we move into mowing season, please remember that grass clippings, leaves, and yard debris should never be blown or swept into streets, gutters, or storm drains. Storm drains flow directly into local creeks, rivers, and wetlands without treatment. When yard waste enters the storm system, it can clog drainage infrastructure, contribute to flooding, and reduce water quality by adding excess nutrients to waterways.
Dispose of grass clippings and yard debris properly by mulching, composting, or bagging for collection.
Small actions make a big difference in protecting our local waterways and keeping our stormwater system functioning properly. Thank you for helping keep Valdosta clean and stormwater-safe.
Only rain down the drain!!!
April 2026
We know… it’s been so dry lately that puddles are now just a fond memory. While we’re currently in a serious drought, stormwater still matters, because when the rain finally shows up, it’s going to hit fast and hard.
That means:
- No dumping anything (even “just water”) into storm drains
- Wash cars on grass or gravel, not pavement
- Keep yard debris out of streets and drains
- Pick up pet waste (yes, even when it’s dry—it’ll wash away later)
Why it matters:
After a long dry spell, the first rain washes everything—oil, trash, fertilizers—straight into our waterways. Think of it as a “gross first flush.” Let’s keep it clean.
Bonus thought:
At this point, we’d all gladly take a 10-minute rain shower… but until then, let’s be ready when it comes.
March 2026
It’s March 4th — which means it’s time to March Forth into stellar stormwater habits.
As we head into spring rain season (fingers crossed — we need it) here in the City of Valdosta, this is your monthly stormwater reminder.
Stormwater Tip: Only rain belongs in the storm drain.
Storm drains do not connect to a treatment facility. Water entering inlets flows directly to local waterways, including the Withlacoochee River. Any debris or pollutants left on streets, sidewalks, or work areas can be carried downstream during rain events.
Please remember to:
- Sweep paved areas instead of washing debris into the street.
- Keep leaves, grass clippings, and trash out of gutters and inlets.
- Store materials and chemicals under cover before rain.
- Use dry cleanup methods whenever possible.
- Report clogged or damaged storm drains.
Taking a few extra minutes to prevent pollutants from entering the storm system helps protect our waterways and keeps Valdosta beautiful!