Adopt-A-Drain Program
About The Program
Through the Adopt-A-Drain program, members of the community can quickly and easily assist the City of Kettering in keeping the city beautiful and clean.
Volunteers will be responsible for inspecting the drain they adopt and the area around it, removing leaves and other debris from both the drain grate and the surrounding area, and disposing of any leaves and debris in the appropriate waste receptacle before a predicted storm and an additional four times a year.
Why Adopt?
Adopting a drain is one of the many ways you can keep Kettering clean and prevent flooding in your neighborhood streets! Reasons to adopt include:
- Leaves, grass clippings, trash, and other debris can prevent water from draining, leading to flooding of the streets.
- Adopting is a great opportunity to take leadership in your community.
- Adopting a drain is a great way for community members to get involved, and an easy way to get community service. The city would lover your help!
- Help keep our waterways clean and protect our aquatic wildlife.
- Trash that flows into the drain may end up in the local rivers, endangering wildlife.
Click here to Adopt-A-Drain
Materials Needed
Cleaning your drain is easy with a few household items you may already have at home. Here’s a list of materials that will make it easier than ever to clean your drain.
- Gloves – To protect your hands and keep them clean.
- Rake/Broom – To clear the debris.
- Yard Waste Bag – For leaves, grass and other organic materials.
- Trash/Recyclable Bags – For garbage and litter.
Safety Instructions:
Please stay safe while cleaning your drain by following these guidelines:
- Do not attempt to clean the inside or reach into a drain
- Do not attempt to remove a drain’s grate
- Clean only during the daytime
- If there is a sidewalk adjacent to your drain, please clean from there, and if there is not, face on coming traffic and be aware of your surroundings while in the road
- Consider wearing reflective clothing
- Be mindful that there might be sharp or other harmful items around your drain
Report A Problem
Call 937-296-2436 to report any of the following issues
- Missing storm drain lid
- Flooding or high water in the street
- Missing manhole lid
- Hydrant has been struck
- Sewer odors
- Any other serious water/sewer related issues
Frequently Asked Questions
How many drains can I adopt?
- There is no limit to the amount of drains you can adopt. However, it is recommended that you only adopt drains that you can commit to caring for regularly.
Do I have to live or have my business/organization near the drain I want to adopt?
- Not at all, though it might be more convenient since then the drain would be in an area you frequent.
How long is this a commitment for?
- You can unadopt a drain anytime by emailing ketteringengineering@ketteringoh.org
Do I have to be a certain age to participate?
- All ages are welcome to participate in the program, however those under 18 will need the permission of a parent and/or guardian.
How often should I clear the storm drain?
- We would recommend clearing the drain ahead of a major storm events and an additional four times a year.
What if I forget to clean my drain for an extended period of time?
- It is never too late to start re-cleaning your drain! City of Kettering will also send out seasonal reminders reminding you to clean your drain. The goal of the reminder is to be friendly.
Should I remove the grate?
- No! Never remove the grate. If there is debris that you can’t reach call 937-296-2436.
What is “around” my drain when it comes to cleaning around my drain?
- “Around” is approximately ten (10) feet. Cleaning any immediate areas that the water will flow through before entering the drain is recommended.
Can I modify my adopted storm drain?
- No. The Adopt-A-Drain program does not permit any alterations to the storm drain. This includes things such as paint, stain, physical movement, or modifications of any kind to the storm drain.