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5 Spring/Summer 2018 Grass Clippings, Leaves & Yard Debris in Storm Sewers City storm sewers are designed to carry rain water (com- monly referred to as ‘storm water’), surface run-off and snow melt to wetlands, ponds and lakes. Storm sewers are not designed to handle leaves, grass clippings and other yard debris. During rainstorms, grass clippings, leaves and other yard debris can plug storm drains/grates and accumulate in the pipes, contributing to clogs and back-ups. In heavy rain events these clogs and back-ups can cause flooding. In addition to grass clippings, leaves and debris, storm water often contains materials found in pet wastes, fertil- izers and pesticides. When even small amounts of these materials enter waterways, they become pollutants that can kill fish and reduce water aesthetics. Proper watering and irrigation tips for a healthy lawn and landscape: • Watering deeply once or twice per week is better than watering a little every day. This will mimic natural weather patterns and lead to deep root growth and increased drought, pest and disease tolerance. • The ideal time to water the grass is between 3 a.m. and 6 a.m. Watering at night may promote turf grass diseases. Watering in the day causes water to be lost to evaporation. • Apply any fertilizers, soil conditioners or other treatments prior to rainfall. • Manage thatch to ensure water penetration. Soil surfactants that improve microbial ac- tivity and microorganisms can help manage thatch. • Mow high for increased moisture reserves in the leaf blades and roots. • Equip sprinkler systems with rain sensors. • Ensure sprinkler coverage is even across the lawn. • Grass stressed from lack of water will go dormant, not die. • Mow less frequently during drought and heat stresses on the lawn. • Consider drip irrigation for a garden or when practical, water the soil not the plant leaves or tree trunks. • For trees and shrubs, water away from the trunk, several feet in circumference beyond the canopy of the tree or shrub. • Longterm, mulching can help to improve soil and plant health, improving water manage- ment, water conservation and drought resistance of plants in addition to fast results with soil surfactants.