Storm Drain Medallion Dedication in Martinsville, VA

July 1, 2022

Dedication of Uptown Storm Drains with Permanent Markers

On June 30, 2022, the Mayor of the City of Martinsville, Kathy Lawson presided over the dedication of permanent storm drain markers in Uptown.  This project, funded by the Martinsville Uptown Rotary Club, the Rotary Club of Martinsville, and the Henry County Rotary Club in partnership with the Dan River Basin Association (DRBA) was initiated to bring awareness to the need to protect the water in our local streams and creeks in Uptown Martinsville as they all drain into the Smith River.  This was the third and final event of the Inspire Clean Water project supported by the Rotary Clubs. 

“This project will leave a lasting legacy to inspire clean water and environmental protection in Uptown,” said Kathy Lawson, Mayor, City of Martinsville. “Storms drains work by diverting rainwater and melting snow into nearby bodies of water. Every time it rains, water runs off of roofs and into the street, unfortunately bringing oil, litter, debris and toxins with it. This water then flows into storm drains and then through a system of pipes directly into waterways such as a streams and rivers.  It is important that nothing but water ever enters a storm drain.”

The first event, held in October, 2021, inspired people to understand how storm drains work when the Rotary Club members and teens from the Boys & Girls Club painted twelve drains in Uptown Martinsville with the inscription “No Dumping, Drains to River.”  The second event was completed in Spring, 2022, when three winners from the Rotary-sponsored elementary, middle and high school art contests painted their creations on three storm drains in Uptown.   This final event completes the project with more than a dozen permanent medallions in Uptown reminding people that the storm drains empty in the Smith River.

“Storm Drain Marking is a tangible way to actively engage and motivate citizens to learn more about the connection between storm water and the quality of our rivers,” Dennis Reeves of the Rotary Clubs of Martinsville and Henry County. “We hope this dedication of permanent markers will not only make people think twice about littering, but will also improve the health of our amazing Smith River.”

We all Live downstream. Learn more about storm drain marking and how you can support and protect waterways in your community. Get involved with DRBA!