Kenmore, Hamline University roll out Adopt‑a‑Drain volunteer program to reduce stormwater pollution

A staff member said the City of Kenmore has partnered with Hamline University to introduce an Adopt‑a‑Drain program that asks residents to adopt nearby storm drains to reduce pollution flowing into the Sammamish River and Lake Washington.

“Ever notice a storm drain on your street and wonder where all the water goes?” the staff member asked during a brief presentation. The presenter said those drains send runoff directly to local lakes and rivers, and the Adopt‑a‑Drain program is intended to reduce that pollution.

The staff member said volunteers can adopt a storm drain through the Adopt‑a‑Drain website and that the site lets users pick their state and city and find nearby drains. “By going to adopt a drain website, you can easily pick your state and city and find a storm drain near you,” the staff member said.

Program duties described in the presentation include removing trash, pet waste and other debris that can block drains or carry pollutants into waterways. The presenter used a storm‑drain mascot named “Basil” to explain how drains collect rain and snow and send water to the Sammamish River or Lake Washington.

The staff member said they would list the participation steps and the specific website address in follow‑up materials; the address was not specified in the meeting transcript. Residents seeking to participate should look for city notices or the Adopt‑a‑Drain website for sign‑up details.