Education

As the City of Norwalk continues to grow and develop, so do the amount of impervious surfaces ie. Streets, parking lots, sidewalks, and buildings. During rain and thaw events, deposits of pollutants, soils, chemicals, etc. end up in to the storm sewer system and local waterways. It is of the utmost importance to the City of Norwalk to eliminate as much of these discharges as possible to ensure a clean environment.

Homeowner Tips & Guidelines

Litter and Pet Waste: Keep litter, pet waste, leaves, and debris out of street gutters and storm drains--these outlets drain directly to lakes, streams, rivers, and wetlands.

Oil and other Household Chemicals: Dispose of used oil, antifreeze, paint, and other household chemicals properly, not in storm sewers or drains. Clean up spilled brake fluid, oil, grease, and antifreeze. Do not hose them into the street where they can eventually reach local streams and lakes. Household hazardous wastes can be taken to the Regional Collection Center for Household Hazardous Waste in Bondurant (515-967-5512). Take Marshalltown exit north off of I-80 just east of Des Moines, go 1 mile north on Hwy 65, it is the building on the left side of the road with the green roof.

Soil: Control soil erosion on your property by planting ground cover and stabilizing erosion-prone areas.

Septic Systems: Have your septic system inspected and pumped, at a minimum, every three to five years so that it operates properly.