“We make sure the stormwater, which drains to the creeks, is clean and that there aren’t any obstructions within the storm sewer system,” said Sasha Buchheit, engineering department stormwater and floodplain supervisor. “This will help to minimize some of the causes of flooding or negative nature impacts such as pollution.”
Common stormwater pollutants
The most common pollutants found in Pearland's stormwater drains include leaves and trash, but there are also occasional sewer overflows, illegal dumping and unauthorized discharges. These pollutants can have severe consequences for local ecosystems.
“Any debris that pollutes the waterways is harmful to the aquatic life that lives there,” environmental services superintendent Laurie Rodriguez said. “With plastics and trash, it's unpleasant and it's not sanitary. It can be harmful for the animals that tend to feed off of that ecosystem. Excessive leaves and grass clippings can also contribute to deteriorating the oxygen out of the creeks, which basically makes [an environment] where the fish can't survive.”
How to report pollution
The public plays a vital role in maintaining the city’s drainage systems. Residents are encouraged to properly dispose of leaves and trash, and to report any instances of improper disposal.
Reports can be made to the city’s Public Works Department at 281-652-1900, through the Connect2Pearland app or by contacting any city department, including Code Enforcement or Environmental Services.
Expanding public education
Pearland officials are actively engaged in public education to raise awareness about stormwater pollution. One example is their participation in events such as Spring Fest. The city also conducts outreach to schools and youth organizations to educate children about protecting water resources.
“That gives us a great opportunity to meet with citizens,” Rodriguez said.
City departments collaborate regularly
In addition to public outreach, city departments collaborate on stormwater management through quarterly meetings.
“We get together and talk about different challenges. We also use [the meetings] as an educational opportunity to refresh everybody on why we're here and that we're doing our part to improve the negative impacts,” Buchheit said. “We always stay in contact with one another and work together to solve issues that may arise.”
Pearland officials invite community groups to learn more
Residents can find information on proper waste disposal on the city’s solid waste website, which includes a link to a Frontier Waste booklet.
City officials expressed their commitment to educating the public and protecting the environment.
“I enjoy this. I like teaching people and sharing what I know,” Rodriguez said. “I encourage people to ask questions or invite us to come talk to their groups or their schools. We have information that reaches all ages from elementary school all the way up to adults.”
To invite city officials to speak to schools or organizations, residents can contact 281-652-1900.
Be part of the solution: Help keep Pearland’s waterways clean
Stormwater pollution and flooding can affect everyone in Pearland, but with the community’s help, these challenges can be minimized.
Click here to learn more about how you can be part of the change.
The above story was produced by Multi Platform Journalist Sydney Heller with Community Impact's Storytelling team with information solely provided by the local business as part of their "sponsored content" purchase through our advertising team.
