What Is Stormwater?

Ever wondered where all the water from our streets ends up? Look right here! This stormwater outfall pipe is like a giant funnel, carrying rainwater straight from city streets into our lake. Next time it rains, imagine following a single raindrop's journey — rolling down the street, picking up bits of trash and oil from cars, then flowing through underground pipes until it splashes out right where you're standing.

Take a closer look around the pipe. Can you spot any floating trash or see a dirty slick floating on the water? Those are clues about what's washing off our streets. Every wrapper, oil drip, tire dust, piece of pet waste, and soap from car washes on our sidewalks has a direct path to the Mokelumne River. The good news? When we keep our streets clean, we're actually helping protect the home of all the fish, birds, and other wildlife you see around you!