CleanWaterKCMetro - Clean Water KC Metro

If it's on the ground, it's in our water

Apply today for the 2023 MARC Water Quality Public Education Grant!

Click here to apply. Proposals due January 30, 2023.

Mid-America Regional Council (MARC), on behalf of the Water Quality Education Committee, requests proposals from nonprofits, schools, and community groups to implement educational activities, events or projects promoting actions to improve water quality in the Greater Kansas City area.

Based on results from a citizen survey, the Committee will continue to focus on educating citizens about how stormwater contributes to water pollution in area lakes, rivers and streams, and how residents can reduce such pollution.

Government entities are not eligible to apply for funding. Grant funds must be used to support activity and/or event planning, project implementation and associated costs. In addition, proposals may be submitted for landscaping with native species to improve air and water quality and reduce excess water use. Click here for full details.

Everyone can play a key role in keeping our waterways clean and free of pollution through changes in behavior. Much of the pollution in our urban waterways can be linked to common lawn care practices such as applying too much fertilizer and pesticide, or not properly disposing of pet waste. Before learning how you can make a difference, here are some key definitions regarding water pollution:

Runoff – Runoff is stormwater that flows over impervious surfaces such as rooftops, driveways, sidewalks, streets and to some extent over residential lawns. As it flows, it picks up oils, lawn chemicals, pet waste and other pollutants along the way.
Storm Sewers – Unlike the sewers connected to your home’s plumbing, storm sewers take stormwater runoff directly to nearby lakes and streams, without any treatment to remove pollutants.
Watersheds – Everyone lives in a watershed. A watershed is an area of land that drains to a common body of water, such as a nearby creek, stream, river or lake.

Stormwater runoff is the biggest problem facing our streams, creeks and rivers today; fortunately, there are many things YOU can do to improve water quality AND save money. Watch the videos below for ways you can help keep our water clean.

Tips for Improving Water Quality

Landscape with native plants to increase water infiltration and decrease lawn maintenance.
Never discard trash or yard waste down storm drains or in the street.
Dispose of pet waste properly.
Use lawn chemicals safely. Always follow label instructions and never apply before rain or watering the lawn, unless directed.
Redirect downspouts to drain rain water onto lawns and gardens.
Wash your car at a professional car wash that filters the wastewater or wash your car in a grassy area. Do not wash cars on driveways or in the street.
Use rain barrels or rain gardens to conserve rain water on your property.