Grass Clippings & Stormwater
Keep Grass on the Lawn — and Out of Our Storm Drains
Grass clippings may seem harmless, but when they are left in streets, along curbs, on sidewalks, or on other paved surfaces, rainwater can carry them into storm drains and nearby streams.
As grass clippings and other yard waste break down in the water, they release nutrients that can contribute to water quality problems. Keeping grass clippings out of the stormwater system is a simple way every property owner can help protect our local waterways.
What Should I Do With My Grass Clippings?
Leave them on the lawn.
Consider using a mulching mower. Mulching mowers cut grass into small pieces that settle between the blades of grass, where they naturally decompose and return valuable nutrients to your lawn.
Keep clippings off paved surfaces.
When mowing, direct grass clippings back toward your lawn rather than into the street, driveway, or sidewalk. If clippings do end up on pavement, sweep or blow them back onto the lawn.
Collect them when necessary.
Grass clippings may also be collected and disposed of properly. Keep in mind that removing clippings also removes nutrients from your lawn and may increase the need for fertilizer.
Why Does It Matter?
Storm drains are designed to carry rainwater away from streets and properties. Water entering these drains can ultimately reach local streams and waterways.
That means anything washed into a storm drain — including grass clippings, leaves, fertilizer, soil, litter, or other pollutants — can affect the health of our local waterways and the larger Chesapeake Bay watershed.
Woody Waste Site
Please note that grass clippings are NOT accepted at the East Cocalico Township Woody Waste Site. The site is intended for approved woody yard waste, such as qualifying tree and shrubbery trimmings.
Residents should contact their licensed trash hauler for information regarding available yard waste and grass clipping collection services.
Remember: Storm Drains Are for Rainwater Only
Never dump grass clippings, leaves, yard waste, chemicals, oils, soaps, or other materials into a storm drain.
A cleaner lawn and driveway can help lead to cleaner streams. Small actions at home make a difference in protecting East Cocalico Township's water resources.
