Hempstead asks for help with ‘No Dumping’ signs

Hempstead Town is looking for volunteers to mark storm drains with “No Dumping” medallions, in an effort to keep local water clean, officials said.

Supervisor Kate Murray is calling on school groups, Scout troops, civic associations, veterans organizations and other clubs to help place the medallions on storm drains throughout town. There are 17,000 acres of wetlands and 180 miles of coastal waterways within the town, officials said.

The town, in partnership with Operation SPLASH (Stop Pollution Littering and Save Harbors), a volunteer nonprofit, are seeking to prevent the dumping of motor oil, pet waste, fertilizers, pesticides and other hazardous waste in storm drains. Dumping these pollutants is illegal because they can be carried into the town’s bays and waterways and damage the ecosystem, officials said.

“Under no circumstances should residents dispose of hazardous wastes in storm drains,” Murray said in a statement. “Only rainwater should run into our storm drains.”

Those interested in volunteering can log on to the town’s website at www.toh.li to view a video on how to attach the medallions to storm drains. All supplies — medallions, adhesive material, brushes and gloves — will be provided to volunteers. For more information, call the town’s Department of Conservation and Waterways at 516-431-9200.

Photo: Hempstead Town Hall.