Office of Sustainability offers pool draining tips

As pool season winds down, here's an important reminder. Did you know that draining your pool water into a storm drain is harmful to the environment?

Not only is it considered an illegal discharge, but it can also be detrimental to aquatic life in our local streams. Let's do our part to protect our waterways and wildlife by disposing of pool water responsibly.

If you have an inflatable pool, follow these best practices when draining at the end of the season.

• Let the water sit for several days without adding chemicals.
• Drain slowly onto a lawn or landscaped area - never into the street or storm drain.
• Make sure the water stays on your property and doesn't run off into storm drains.

If you have a larger in-ground or above-ground pool that you ned to drain, please contact the Sewer /Stormwater Utility to learn the proper procedures in compliance with the City's opens in a new windowMunicipal Separate Storm Sewer System (MS4) Permit.

The MS4 Permit regulates how the City manages and discharges stormwater to prevent pollution in our local waterways. Pool water that's improperly drained - especially if it contains chlorine or other chemicals - can harm aquatic life. That's why it's important to follow approved drainage practices.

For more information, contact the Sewer Utility at 573.874.2489opens phone dialer or [email protected]create new email.