New Drainkeepers program aims for clean streets, clear sewers
2024 pilot program generated interest from dozens of Brook Park, Maple Heights residents
Drainkeepers is a new community-led initiative to empower residents to help keep curb and yard storm drains clear of trash and debris. In this new pilot program, the cities of Brook Park and Maple Heights partnered with the Northeast Ohio Regional Sewer District in 2024 to evaluate its success and determine future opportunities locally and regionally.
Nearly 60 residents of Brook Park and Maple Heights applied to be a Drainkeeper in 2024 by claiming the catch basin closest to their property and, once enrolled, received a complimentary Drainkeepers one-time supply kit including a dust pan, broom, small shrub rake, visibility vest, work gloves, and plastic refuse bags.
Helping local sewers function properly.
Where do local sewers fit in the urban water cycle?
City service departments work closely with the Northeast Ohio Regional Sewer District’s Watershed Team Leaders to track reports of stream and weather-related flood events, and routine maintenance by city crews ensure drains are clear from the inside.
But with the help of residents, and access to resources made available by the Sewer District and partners, simple clearing of leaves, yard debris, or surface trash away from drains can maximize the function of the sewer system for the betterment of the city while having regional water-quality benefits.
Partners make it possible.
The Drainkeepers pilot program was made possible in 2024 thanks to the cities of Brook Park and Maple Heights, the Northeast Ohio Regional Sewer District, Cuyahoga County Soil & Water Conservation District, Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority Inc., Alpha Lambda Sigma Alumnae Chapter and a generous grant from Cuyahoga County.
Brook Park and Maple Heights were the first Drainkeepers program participants and residents’ applications for 2024 are now closed. If you would like more information about future collaborative opportunities, contact us.
