Artists Paint Storm Drain Art to Raise Water Pollution Awareness in York County

Pollution from stormwater runoff is one of the leading causes of water pollution in the United States. Stormwater runoff occurs when rainwater or melting snow does not soak into the ground and instead flows across the land, carrying pollutants with it. In a natural environment, precipitation is gradually absorbed by plants and the soil, leading to steady stream flows and improved water quality. However, impervious surfaces such as rooftops, parking lots, sidewalks, and roads prevent this absorption.

As a result, large amounts of water quickly run off these surfaces and enter storm drains. Storm drain systems are designed to carry this runoff from the streets to nearby waterways, helping to prevent urban flooding. These systems consist of curbs, gutters, catch basins, drainpipes, and flood control channels. Unfortunately, the water that flows through these systems is not treated before being discharged into lakes, streams, and rivers. Because storm drain systems are not designed for water treatment, they can inadvertently allow a variety of pollutants—such as oil, chemicals, grass clippings, soil, and trash—to enter our waterways. Many people are unaware of this direct connection between stormwater runoff and water pollution.

Due to the growing issue of stormwater pollution and increasing concerns about water quality among citizens, the Master Watershed Stewards in York County have organized the 8th Annual Street 2 Creek Storm Drain Art Contest. This initiative is in collaboration with project partners, including the City of York, the Lower Susquehanna Riverkeeper Association, and the Watershed Alliance of York.

The goal of this annual project is to enhance public knowledge and awareness regarding the function and importance of storm drains and water quality through community involvement and artwork. The artistic designs around the storm drains aim to raise awareness among citizens about the connection between storm drains and local streams.

Master Watershed Stewards issued a call to artists residing in the Chesapeake Bay Watershed. A panel of judges, comprising community leaders and local artists, evaluated the submitted artwork using a standardized rubric. The top three artists were selected to paint drains in downtown York. A People's Choice Award was also chosen and sponsored by Cornerstone Barbershop and Shave Parlor. This year's winners are as follows:

• First Place – Heather Greenough
• Second Place – Ashley Zech
• Third Place – Morgan Snyder
• People's Choice Award – Yifan Ye

 The finished design of Morgan Snyder's storm drain art. Photo: Jodi Sulpizio

The painted storm drains are spread throughout the City of York on both sides of the Codorus Creek. There are over 20 painted storm drains. As you stroll through the streets, you'll encounter artwork featuring a map of York County's watersheds, an octopus with its tentacles extending from a storm drain, river otters peeking through the water, turtles catching fish, stoic egrets overseeing a wetland, and vibrant crabs, fish, frogs, and more. These lively depictions bring splashes of color and character to downtown York. Each painted storm drain conveys a message about the importance of keeping our streets and waterways free of pollution. Enjoy the hunt for them!

Learn more about . You can find a map of the storm drains and more information on the Street 2 Creek Project. This project was funded by the Street 2 Creek Partners, Sandy Hollow for Arts and the Environment (SHARE), and Cornerstone Barbershop and Shave Parlor. This project is growing. Chester County had its first storm drain art contest this year. Watch for future expansion across the state!