The streets of downtown Keyport, Washington got a bit more beautiful last August. Here, the sea comes to life in the form of a giant octopus, an orange starfish, Orca whales, swirling schools of fish, and even a cheeky little seagull. Local artists painted the vibrant artwork on storm drains in the small community which is highly walkable and close to the water.
Runoff entering storm drains like these carry pollutants like oil, litter and pet waste directly into our local waterways and Puget Sound. The new public art creates a connection between the creatures that depend on clean water and the role that humans play in keeping it that way. The artwork will live on the streets of Keyport for a few years, serving as a colorful visual reminder that Puget Sound really does start here.
Kitsap County is bringing this engaging project to the streets of Manchester next summer. Artists can submit their own visions for cleaner waters in spring 2020. Selected artists receive paint and supplies as well as a small stipend for their time. Learn more about the project online.
Color your own world cleaner
Even if your neighborhood storm drain lacks this kind of color, you can still show it some love! Here’s how you can preserve our habitats for generations to come.
Clear the way
- Keep storm drains around your home clear of leaves, garbage or debris. Clogged grates block flow and create local flooding.
- Rake leaves and needles to keep them out of streets and storm drains.
Pick up the doody
- You already know you should scoop the poop on your daily walk with Fido, but did you know that the pet waste in your backyard can contribute to bacterial contamination in our waterways? Consider scooping waste from your backyard at least once a week (yes, even in the winter!).
Fix leaks
- Oil leaking from vehicles is a major cause of water pollution. Repair leaks as soon as possible after you discover them.
Grow organic
- While you’re flipping through garden catalogs and dreaming of spring, think natural! Choosing natural yard care practices like switching to organic products and reducing your use of yard chemicals will help your yard reduce its ‘pollution footprint.’ In the spring, apply fertilizer based on label directions at the right time for your yard.