Protecting Our Waterways: A Shared Responsibility for a Healthy Community

Whether it’s hiking alongside Boulder Creek or enjoying a quiet moment at a local park, these waterways are intertwined with our daily lives.

But these spaces need our help to stay healthy, and the responsibility falls on all of us. Our waterways face significant challenges, one of the most pressing being stormwater pollution. It may not always be something we see or think about, but it’s something that directly impacts our environment—and ultimately, our well-being.

Stormwater is the rain and snowmelt that flows over rooftops, streets and yards. Unlike wastewater that goes through a treatment plant, stormwater enters storm drains and flows directly—untreated—into our local rivers and creeks. Along the way, it can pick up pollutants like oil, pesticides, pet waste and trash. These pollutants flow into our waterways, affecting the health of the environment and the quality of water we depend on.

Clean water is essential for healthy ecosystems, safe recreation and thriving communities. Whether it's fishing by the creek, enjoying a picnic in a park or simply walking alongside the water, our rivers and streams are where we come together as a community. They also supply water for agriculture and drinking water to downstream communities.

You might be surprised by how much our daily actions contribute to stormwater pollution: fertilizer on the lawn, a vehicle leaking oil in the driveway, leaves and grass clippings in the gutter or uncovered construction materials. These seemingly small things have the potential to wash into storm drains, eventually making their way into our waterways.

Every time it rains, stormwater moves these pollutants into the rivers and creeks we love. But there’s good news—just by being mindful, we can make a big difference.

Sometimes, the signs of stormwater pollution are right in front of us. If you’re out and about in the community, keep an eye out for these red flags:

• A shiny, oily sheen on a puddle or stream

• Water that smells odd or looks discolored
• Excessive foam or cloudy water
• Someone dumping unknown liquids into a drain
• Landscaping or construction waste spilling into the street
• Water from pools or spas being drained directly into the street

You can report these by emailing SpillResponse@bouldercolorado.gov or by calling 303-916-5563. City staff will determine whether clean-up is needed to prevent pollution from entering the storm sewer system.

Small changes can have a big impact. These simple steps not only protect the health of our environment but also ensure that the places we love remain safe for future generations.

Here are a few easy steps that anyone can take:

• Clean up after pets: Pet waste contains harmful bacteria that can impact water quality.
• Use fewer chemicals: Choose eco-friendly lawn care products and apply only what’s needed.
• Fix vehicle leaks: If your vehicle is leaking, get it repaired quickly and make sure any fluids are properly disposed of.
• Be mindful of storm drains: Never dump anything down a storm drain—only rain should go down the drain.

• Contain materials: Keep yard waste and construction materials contained to prevent them from washing into the streets.

In Boulder, we’re fortunate to be connected by the rivers and creeks that flow through our neighborhoods. Protecting these shared resources is a collective responsibility. The city is working hard to reduce stormwater pollution through community education, infrastructure improvements and partnerships with local organizations.

But we can’t do it alone.

Let’s continue to work together— by making small changes at home, keeping an eye out for pollution and simply spreading the word—to protect the rivers and creeks that make Boulder, Boulder.

To learn more and get involved, visit: Stormwater Quality Program and Keep it Clean Partnership