Did you know the City of Lacey (City) maintains more than 6,700 storm drains, over 90 miles of storm drainpipes, and 50 regional stormwater ponds? This storm drain system leads to our rivers, lakes, streams, and eventually to Puget Sound. That’s why stormwater management is an important tool in keeping our oceans, aquifers, streams, and waterways clean.
The City’s Storm and Surface Water Program will take part in Washington State’s designated Stormwater Awareness Week October 6-12, 2025. The campaign raises awareness of the essential role stormwater management — including protection, treatment, and discharge — plays in safeguarding and restoring our environment. Follow along for educational, informational, and volunteer opportunities.
Learn about Pollutants, Inspections, and Maintenance from Industry Stormwater Experts
According to the Environmental Protection Agency, maintaining storm drains and drainage ditches leads to many benefits including improved water quality, flood control, water conservation, and healthier ecosystems.
Ali Brown, Water Resources Specialist for the City of Lacey, says this is the second annual statewide Stormwater Awareness Week. Programming and grants are facilitated by the Washington Stormwater Center in partnership with Washington Departments of Ecology and Commerce, and the Puget Sound Partnership. These grants fund research and provide training for city and county staff on emerging science, new equipment, permitting updates, and other stormwater management issues.
In addition, various departments use these trainings as opportunities to network and learn from each other. “We all want to do our very best,” says Brown. Teams from across the Puget Sound look forward to these annual get-togethers.
Bringing Stormwater Know-How to the Streets, Yards, and Waters of Lacey
Lacey’s stormwater team plans to attend various events throughout Stormwater Awareness Week. The team is a diverse group of 15 staff members including stormwater facility inspectors, engineers, permit coordinators, educators, and maintenance and operations technicians. “We all play very diverse roles,” says Brown, “and work really well together.”
The opportunity to work with governments across the Puget Sound region, “gives us the chance to learn from their experiences and project management,” says Brown, “and benefit from their wealth of knowledge, especially if they have more experience with specific programs.”
During Storm Water Week, the weekdays focus on in-house training. During the weekends, the public is encouraged to join the campaign to learn more about our stormwater system and lend a helping hand. Anyone interested can help by participating in several days of community action and volunteering.
Lend a Helping Hand to Thurston County Waterways with Stream Team
Locally, the storm and surface water utilities of Lacey, Olympia, Tumwater, and Thurston County work together to sponsor and fund Stream Team. People might recognize the name in conjunction with downtown Olympia’s Salmon Stewards. However, Stream Team also provides volunteer opportunities, hands-on science, fun events, educational videos, and clean water action items!
One of Stream Team’s ongoing project is located at Sapp Road Park in Tumwater. Stream Team will host community restoration events to do ground work, remove invasive plants, and plant beneficial native species. “It’s fun to see how much work a small group of dedicated volunteers can do in a short time,” says Brown. “We get lots of return volunteers and new folks are always welcome.”
How You Can Make a Difference
“Our ultimate goal is to protect our water,” she says, “When we take small actions — like picking up pet waste, or keeping trash and leaves out of the street and storm drains — we help make a difference.” Other suggestions from Lacey’s stormwater team include:
- Using a commercial carwash instead of washing your car at home.
- Disposing of paints and other chemicals properly.
- Keeping vehicles properly maintained to prevent fluid leaks.
- Disposing of home and yard waste properly so it doesn’t end up clogging storm drains.
If you have stormwater questions in Lacey, you can email WaterResources@CityofLacey.org or call 360.491.5600. To learn more about Stormwater Awareness Week, you can register for online presentations or follow the City of Lacey on Facebook or Instagram for handy tips and tricks. You will even be able to Adopt a Drain with the City of Lacey very soon!
Many folks equate Washington with rain but it is our iconic natural beauty that sets us apart. Tireless work from regional stormwater managers helps ensure that future generations can enjoy all that makes Puget Sound special.
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