Promoting a Storm Water Program is not easy, as it is hard to tell people not to allow all that soapy water to enter the storm drain when they wash their car or to pour detergents onto the oil spots on their drive way and allow it to flow into the gutter. Nevertheless the public needs to be informed that those storm water drains are exactly for that; Storm Water (only). You see the solution to pollution is not always dilution, but rather do not pollute in the first place. Indeed it is against the law to pollute and most people once they understand this will watch what goes into the gutter out front. Nevertheless, a storm water division at a local municipality can only do so many public relations campaigns, before the citizens get bored. So here is another concept; Have the storm water vehicles and employees join in a neighborhood watch program to help fight crime. Then the public will welcome seeing the vehicles drive around in the neighborhoods because they will be helping not just writing storm water ticket violations. Why is this a good idea to do? Well consider that; STORM WATER PROGRAM: Storm water program personnel are somewhat of a new trend. They are in charge of making sure that only rainwater goes into a storm drain. They work very closely with the code enforcement department in the city and sometimes share the same responsibilities. Illegal dumping and pollution are something else that happens too often in cities. It also gives them a chance to work more closely with law enforcement and helps them have teeth in their jobs to stop the pollution. By using the synergies and proper public relations attached to a storm water program you can create a dual purpose and show the value of the Storm Water Program in your community. So indeed perhaps you will consider this in 2006. |