Friends of Sugar Creek is asking residents to do their part to keep local waterways clean.
The organization’s new Adopt-a-Storm-Drain program will enlist volunteers to clear away trash, leaves and other debris that get swept into the drains after a rainfall. The initiative seeks to raise awareness of how storm drain pollution impacts the watershed.
“It will help the stormwater department keep trash and debris out of their equipment. Whatever ends up in the storm drain usually will end up in a creek, so as an effect it’s going to help everybody,” said Cindy Woodall, executive director of Friends of Sugar Creek.
The organization worked with the Crawfordsville Street Department to develop a website mapping the city’s stormwater drains. Residents adopting a drain near their homes will use the site to report their progress, allowing the street department to track how many drains are being cleared.
Residents are encouraged to take yard waste collected from the drains to the Rodney L. Jenkins Memorial Yard Waste Site and recycle plastics.
Friends of Sugar Creek plans to start promoting the program in early August. More information will be posted on the organization’s website or can be obtained by emailing canoe@friendsofsugarcreek.org.
The program received funding from Indiana American Water, which awards money to cities and organizations for community-based environmental projects. It could be expanded to other Montgomery County towns depending on the participation.
Spots are still available for Friends of Sugar Creek’s third annual Kids Canoes and Crinoids event Saturday. The program teaches children ages 9-14 about the biology, geology, history and beauty of the creek.
The group is set to launch from the Old Coke Plant site on Lafayette Avenue at 9 a.m. The trip will end about 1 p.m. at the Rock Ridge Trail Head.
Canoes, paddles, flotation devices and lunch will be provided. St. John’s Episcopal Church’s Pathways to Vitality team is assisting with the event.
To sign up, visit www.friendsofsugarcreek.org or call 765-364-0050. Information about COVID-19 precautions and requirements can be reviewed on the website.
