Lenexa watershed crews keep streams clean

Most people would not expect to find carpet, fence posts and car parts in Lenexa’s streams. However, one group working to keep water clean picks up those items — and more — each year.

Lenexa’s watershed maintenance crew conducts a citywide stream clean-up of the city’s 26 miles of maintained streams every winter.  Last year, the crew collected nearly eight tons of trash and debris, filling 316 55-gallon trash bags in just over two weeks.

This year, the crew will be out cleaning streams through the middle of February. They routinely collect small trash like water bottles, cigarette butts and fast food wrappers as well as larger, more unusual items. They also remove fallen trees and large limbs that were damaged by winter storms.

“If something’s on the ground, rainwater will pick it and carry it to the nearest stormdrain,” Rob Beilfuss, Lenexa’s water quality specialist, said. “Water in stormdrains flows to creeks and streams without being treated, so it’s important people pick up trash and dispose of it properly.”

Whether it’s tossed out of car windows, blown from parking lots or simply left behind, trash degrades the beauty, safety and quality of freshwater. Even worse, it can be deadly to fish, birds and other wildlife.

Trash in streams not only looks bad, but it can last for long time. Plastics, cans and other litter can still be found months or even years after being tossed – often making it from our streams all the way to the ocean.

Lenexans can help keep streams clean by making sure trash and recycling containers are covered on windy days and picking up litter that could wash into ponds, creeks and streams. Potentially toxic items, such as cleaning chemicals and paint, should be taken to Johnson County’s household hazardous waste disposal site.

Residents interested in helping more can sign up to clean a stream through the City of Lenexa’s Adopt-A-Spot program. For more information or an application, visit www.raintorecreation.org and click on “Volunteer opportunities.”

About Rain to Recreation
Lenexa's Rain to Recreation program aims to reduce flooding, protect water quality and natural habitat and provide educational and recreational opportunities to residents. For more information, visit www.raintorecreation.org.