MERDIAN TOWNSHIP - Stormwater is a serious issue, and more and more people are beginning to take notice.

"Only rain in the drain," a simple phrase that can go a long way. For better roads, and cleaner streams, it's important that residents and people within the community notice and take action. Rain drains are the pieces of piping that take water from various downspouts and lead to bodies of waters, such as streams and lakes.

Often, many people confuse rain drains with sewer drains. When things are dumped in storm drains, it tends to have an immediate impact on the water. Any oils, pet waste, fertilizers, gasoline and chemicals on the sidewalks and pavement can get into the storm drains and contaminate the water resources.

"What you're doing no matter if you're miles away can have an impact to the way systems are connected. If you're aware of how our natural and built resources are connected and how your actions contribute to that, we can manage then resources together, " said Greater Lansing Regional Committee Stormwater Coordinator Cliff Walls

Walls explained there are simple steps residents can take to prevent the contamination of water resources including never fertilize when it is expected to rain, and properly dispose of automotive products. Dog, geese and other animal waste can contaminate the water, so be sure to clean up after your pets at parks and rest areas. Practice proper car care, washing your car at home allows soap and other chemical products to wash away into the storm drains and properly dispose of travel trailer waste.