Green Venture’s Catch Basin Ambassador program keeps our waterways clean and protects our communities from floods. Before we dive into the program – let’s talk catch basins!
What is a Catch Basin?
Catch basins are a kind of stormwater infrastructure that catches stormwater runoff and redirects it into our sewer systems.
In Hamilton there are two different types of sewer systems, combined and separate. In combined systems stormwater and wastewater is combined and all of it goes to the wastewater treatment plant to be treated and put into Hamilton Harbour. In separate systems stormwater and wastewater is separated into storm and sanitary sewers respectively.
If you want to learn more about these two systems, check out this Summer Rain Blog post. A buildup of debris in catch basins can lead to surface flooding. One of the best ways to help prevent flooding is to make sure that catch basin grates are clear.
Become a Catch Basin Ambassador
If you’re interested in cleaning up some catch basins, please use gloves and a shovel or litter picker If you need supplies, reach out to stewardship @ greenventure.ca
Cleaning Catch Basins
Catch basins should be checked before and after heavy rain or snow to make sure that it is clear and stormwater runoff will be able to get into the system. The fall and spring are important times to check catch basins because they are more likely to get clogged.
Safety Guidelines for Cleaning Catch Basins
- Never clean the top of a catch basin with your bare hands, always use a rake, broom, or shovel and wear gloves.
- Wear bright colours or a safety vest to be visible to drivers and cyclists, and only clean a catch basin during the day.
- Stay on the sidewalk as much as possible and be aware of incoming traffic.
- Make sure you are working in pairs and have someone watch for traffic and other hazards.
- Do not remove the grate from the catch basin.
- Place leaves and garbage in bags and remove from the site, avoid pushing debris into the catch basin. Watch out for hazardous material such as needles, glass, or deceased wildlife.
- If you find needles/syringes, leave them on the ground and call the City of Hamilton at 905-546-2489.
- Call Animal Services at 905-574-3433 to report a dead animal.
