Gwinnett Daily Post

DULUTH -- On Nov. 19, the city of Duluth and several volunteers will paint the drains in seven neighborhoords to remind residents that anything put in storm drains will empty into streams and rivers, not wastewater treatment plants. The event is an effort to educate the public about cleaning up the waterways.

"We thought it would help our community to bring awareness (to this problem)," said Glenn Coyne, director of planning and development. "I think the folks in the community will be into this."

Volunteers will split up to paint stencils on the concrete drainage structures throughout the city. The storm drain stencil will have a fish with a caution about dumping toxic substances into the water.

The group will focus on seven areas: Woodehaven subdivision, Castlemaine subdivision, Chattahoochee Reserve, Windsor Court, Chattahoochee Cove, Overlook and Abbotts Point. These were specifically chosen because they are the closest to the Chattahoochee River.

"We'll have to see how good the first attempt goes before reaching further into the community," Coyne said. "The idea would be to make the outreach citywide one day."

If there is any work left over after the day ends, Duluth will organize another paint day to finish the drains.

Those interested in volunteering should call Melissa Muscato at 678-957-7284 or email mmuscato@duluthga.net. On Nov. 19, all volunteers are asked to meet at 9 a.m. in the Roger's Bridge Park Pavilion located at 3150 Rogers Bridge Road. Coffee and donuts will be provided.