Editor’s note: The following announcement was received from the City of Whitewater Department of Public Works.

This public service announcement serves as a reminder that blowing or depositing grass clippings into any City street is prohibited. Reasons this is not permitted include: 1) Grass clippings, leaves, and other lawn debris can clog storm drains, resulting in street and private property flooding. 2) Storm drains flow directly to local lakes untreated. Grass clippings add unnecessary nutrients, which help feed harmful algae blooms. 3) Clippings can make the street slippery and hazardous for bicyclists and motorcyclists.

Using a mulching mower puts clippings back into the turf and keeps the nutrients where they belong. Should you choose to use a discharging mower, please be sure to point the blower toward your property (away from the street) to prevent clippings from leaving your lawn. Mowers may also choose to bag clippings, but they may not be disposed of in the garbage totes. City residents are encouraged to compost clippings on their property or take them to the City’s compost site.

When finished mowing, be sure to use a blower, broom, or rake to clean up any grass clippings or debris that have inadvertently made their way into the street, sidewalk, or storm drain.

Per city code Chapter 12.08, “Any person violating any of the provisions of this section [Street Obstructions] shall forfeit and pay a penalty of not less than twenty-five dollars nor more than two hundred fifty dollars, together with the costs of prosecution.