From The EAC: Big Green Worms

Do you know why these "big green worms" are placed around Whitpain storm drains?

According to Greg Klucharich, from the Township Engineering group, "It is a typical sediment control device used for construction projects. It has a few names but is a silt sock. It is a biodegradable cloth material on the exterior and full of mulch. This allows for water to filter through the device but the sediment/mud will mostly get trapped within the mulch or the cloth. When the construction is done, the cloth is cut open and the mulch is left in an undisturbed area to degrade naturally."

These sediment control devices prevent sand, soil, cement, sediment and nutrients from going into our storm drains. Because everything that goes into a storm drain will ultimately end up in a creek or stream, these devices ultimately protect our water resources and prevent pollution.  

What can Whitpain residents do to protect our water resources? One important action to reduce runoff from our property into storm drains is to rethink our lawn care practices. For example:

• Don’t overwater your lawn - consider using a soaker hose instead of a sprinkler
• Use pesticides and fertilizers sparingly
• Use organic mulch and safer pest control methods whenever possible
• Don't leave grass clippings or leaves in the street or sweep them into storm drains 
• Compost leaves and grass clippings.
• Mulch-mowing leaves back into the grass helps strengthen it and the soil, reducing stormwater runoff. Or just leave some leaves on the ground!

Check out Whitpain Sustainable Property Program for more information about Stormwater Management and Pollution Reduction and Stormwater Smart Practices 

Email the Environmental Advisory Council at WhitpainEAC@gmail.com or visit its Website