Adopt a Drain Program

The Village is launching the Adopt a Drain volunteer program in which residents can “adopt” one of the 3,000 storm drains.  Adopters commit to cleaning the drain of debris to maintain a safe and clean environment.    

Clogged storm drains are one of the major causes of roadway flooding in the Village.  These drains are a critical part of the overall storm water management system, and keeping the drains clean assists in preventing roadway flooding.   

Stormwater carries debris from streets and paved surfaces through storm drains into the Des Plaines River. This river later converges with the Kankakee River west of Channahon, forming the Illinois River, a tributary of the Mississippi River that ultimately flows into the Gulf of Mexico.

With over 3,000 storm drains in the Village, it is difficult for Public Works staff to clear all the clogged drains in a timely manner, especially during significant rain events.  With the help of volunteers, the chances of roadway flooding after a rain event, are greatly reduced.  In addition, the assistance of volunteers cleaning debris off storm drains reduces pollution and drainage maintenance costs.