Stormwater Program

The West Melbourne Streets and Drainage team works hard managing the canals and waterways responsible for carrying stormwater away from they city.  Restricted water flow can impact how effectively the drainage system functions so our teams maintain an active schedule clearing overgrowth, garbage and debris from local waterways to maximize the efficiency of the stormwater system. 

The city's street sweeping program helps clear debris from roadways before it can find its way into storm drains and waterways.

Through use of heavy equipment such as the City's "Menzi Muck" excavator, our teams are able to work through difficult terrain to clear overgrowth and improve waterflow in critical areas of the stormwater system.

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understanding stormwater


Stormwater run-off is rain that can't soak into the ground.  As the runoff flows over sidewalks, streets, parking lots, rooftops and altered land, pollutants are picked up and conveyed with the rain to storm drains.  Ultimately the polluted stormwater empties into the Indian River Lagoon or St. Johns River.  This contributes to poor water quality, reduced water clarity and algal blooms.

Stormwater pollutants include:

  • Fertilizer, pesticides and herbicides
  • Pet wastes and failing septic systems
  • Oil, grease, metals and coolants from vehicles
  • Soaps and chemicals from vehicle and equipment washing
  • Soil from construction sites
  • Accidental spills and leaky containers
  • Household trash and litter

How you can help


Reduce Pollutants

  • Minimize use of herbicides, pesticides and fertilizers.
  • Use mulch to prevent erosion.
  • Practice pest prevention and use least toxic pesticides.
  • Follow label directions on chemicals.


Mulch or Compost Yard Waste

  • Blow lawn clippings onto the grass, not into the streets or down storm drains.
  • Mulch pine needles and leaves.
  • Compost yard waste and kitchen scraps.
  • Pick up trash and litter.


Conserve Water

  • Direct downspouts away from pavement and into landscaping.
  • Irrigate conservatively.
  • Install a rain or soil moisture sensor to your irrigation system.
  • Choose drought tolerant plants.
  • Turn off irrigation during the rainy season (June - September).


Minimize Lawn Fertilizer and Chemical Use

  • Comply with local fertilizer ordinance.
  • During the rainy season (June - September) only apply the minimum fertilizer required, if any, to maintain plant health.


At Home

  • Use non-hazardous household cleaning products.
  • Never pour or sweep debris into the street or down a storm drain.
  • Use paints, solvents and cleaners according to label directions.
  • Store liquid chemicals in original containers away from exposure to rain.
  • Close trash cans to keep animals out.
  • Inspect septic tanks every 3-5 years and pump out as needed.


Garbage and Vehicles

  • Keep your vehicles tuned-up.
  • Take used batteries and fluids to Household Hazardous Waste collection sites.
  • Wash your car at a licensed car wash or over the grass, not over pavement.
  • Repair vehicle leaks promptly.


For more information, please visit The Brevard County website, by clicking here: The Brevard County Stormwater Program

Lagoon Loyal pamphlet