Only rain should go down the drain, officials say

LAKEVILLE -- Lakeville officials are urging residents to avoid "stormwater pollution'' by keeping fallen leaves off the street.

Do not blow or rake leaves, grass clippings, brush and tree branches into the street.

They will leach nutrients into stormwater runoff and contribute to pollution in waterways, officials said. 

Leaf litter can also plug storm drains and increase flooding and icing issues. Instead, mulch or compost yard waste away from streams or other waterways.

They can also be disposed of at the transfer station for no cost for those with transfer stickers.

Stormwater pollution is a toxic mix of bacteria, chemicals, metal, nutrients, and other contaminants that washes over pavement and flows down storm drains tp waterways.