Summer & fall offer perfect weather for this volunteer opportunity to raise awareness that dumping waste into storm drains contributes to water pollution & endangers wildlife. Decals, adhesive & instruction is provided for volunteers to apply on curbs near storm drain inlets - perfect for individuals or groups.

Participate in this month-long event promoting awareness & appreciation of our natural waterways by volunteering in stream-bank litter cleanups, invasive plant removal & more. There are several dates, locations & events available throughout the month of June & other ways to get involved year round.

Want to plan your own neighborhood litter cleanup? For planning assistance and supplies, Columbus residents should contact: Keep Columbus Beautiful at 645-8027. KCB can provide litter grabbers, safety vests, bags & other tools; they offer an Adopt-an-Area program and graffiti cleanup too.

Visit the KCB page at Columbus Refuse. 

Local watershed groups plan year-round events and other ways to participate in keeping our waterways clean, including streambank litter cleanups, invasive plant removal & more. For more information contact:  

• Friends of the Lower Olentangy Watershed:(614) 267-3386 or Email 
• Friends of Alum Creek & Tributaries: (614) 569-8544 or Email 
• Friends of Hellbranch (614) 486-9613
• Darby Creek Association (614) 562-8317
• Friends of Big Walnut Creek & Tributaries: (614) 233-4124
• O’Shaughnessy and Hoover Reservoirs: Mark Carnes, Division of Power and Water, 645-1721

Household hazardous wastes are materials used in the home that can cause injury or are harmful if disposed of improperly. Never dump these items into a storm drain, open waterway or ditch. Learn how to dispose of such items properly - there are many free drop-off locations offered by the Solid Waste Authority of Central Ohio (SWACO).

A community garden is a single piece of land gardened collectively by a group of people. They provide fresh produce and plants as well as satisfying labor, exercise, neighborhood improvement, sense of community and connection to the environment.

A recognition program for Columbus residents who are taking steps to protect the environment. Learn how to become more "green" & make your home, school or business a GreenSpot. Learn More...

Rain gardens and rain barrels put rainfall to use, reducing the need for irrigation. Save money while protecting our water supply.

Residents of the City of Columbus who have signed up as Green Spot members are invited to buy a discounted rain barrel for only $55.00, while supplies last. 
Join the GreenSpot Program; it's easy.
Learn more about this offer...

More About Put Rainwater to Use... 

Volunteers are encouraged to participate in this annual litter cleanup on Saturday, September 14, 2013 from 9 a.m. - 12 p.m. at Hoover Reservoir. 

Meeting at the shelter house below the dam. Bags, gloves & refreshments provided. Come out for some good "clean" fun!