Yard clippings and leaves are natural, so they don cause any problems when in the storm drain, right?
Wrong. Grass, leaves, yard clippings and even dirt that is repeatedly swept into catch basins can clog the drain and cause flooding. Additionally, when this material reaches our waterways, green waste decomposes and robs the surrounding water of oxygen that is needed for aquatic life. Dirt accumulated over time can also deplete water of oxygen.