Protecting Westlake's Waterways
What is stormwater?
Stormwater is rainwater that flows over rooftops, streets, sidewalks, parking lots, and other hard surfaces instead of soaking into the ground. As it travels, stormwater can pick up pollutants such as oil, fertilizer, pesticides, pet waste, grass clippings, litter, and other debris before entering nearby ditches, bayous, streams, and waterways.
Unlike wastewater from homes and businesses, stormwater runoff is generally not treated before it reaches the environment. That's why preventing pollution at its source is one of the most effective ways to protect our community's water quality.
How You Can Help
Protecting Westlake's waterways is a shared responsibility. Small actions taken by residents and businesses can make a big difference.
- Keep leaves, grass clippings, and litter out of streets, gutters, and storm drains.
- Never pour oil, paint, chemicals, or other household waste into storm drains or drainage ditches.
- Pick up pet waste and dispose of it properly.
- Use fertilizers and pesticides responsibly by following the manufacturer's instructions.
- Wash vehicles where runoff will not flow directly into the storm drainage system whenever possible.
- Report illegal dumping, spills, or other activities that may pollute local waterways.
Remember
Only rain belongs in the storm drain.
Why Stormwater Matters
Clean waterways benefit everyone. Preventing stormwater pollution helps:
- Protect local rivers, bayous, and wetlands.
Improve water quality for people, fish, and wildlife. - Reduce debris and pollutants entering the drainage system.
- Support a cleaner, healthier community for future generations.
Report a Stormwater Concern
If you observe illegal dumping, chemical spills, clogged storm drains, or any substance other than rainwater entering the City's storm drainage system, please report it so the appropriate personnel can investigate.
More Information
Stormwater Links
Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)
Louisiana Department of Environmental Quality (LDEQ)