By Kelli Latuska
The Regional Stormwater Protection Team is encouraging public input and suggestions on how to protect area lakes and streams from stormwater runoff via an annual contest.
Members of the public can be entered for a chance to win prizes from the RSPT when they suggest ideas for how to better protect Lake Superior, St. Louis River, and our area streams from stormwater pollution. Participants who provide a new idea or suggestion will be entered into a drawing for one of four prizes. The more ideas a person shares, the more chances they have to win.
Prizes include anti-slip winter boots from Tortoise and the Hare, a microplastics filter, a gift certificate to buy native plants, and a pet waste scooper with bags. Details on how to submit ideas and be entered in the raffle are available online at https://www.poopfairy.university/game. The deadline to enter is December 18, 2024.
“Duluth and the RSPT have received some great suggestions from the community in the past, and we’re hoping this year is no exception.” said Ryan Granlund, City of Duluth’s Utility Programs Coordinator.
In a previous contest, a citizen suggested adding educational messaging on local street sweepers. The St. Louis County Public Works sign shop was able to create decals to put that idea into action, providing an ongoing, practical reminder to protect our stormwater system.
RSPT works to increase awareness that runoff from yards and roads that flow via ditches or along the curb into storm sewers in Minnesota is not treated, nor does it go to a wastewater treatment plant. Instead, the runoff flows into nearby lakes and streams. This is why it’s important to keep stormwater runoff clean. Find more information about Duluth’s stormwater utility here: https://duluthmn.gov/public-works-utilities/utilities/stormwater.