The number one cause of pollution in Washington waters is stormwater runoff. As rainwater flows into the nearest grated storm drain, it picks up pollutants such as fertilizers, dirt and leaves, pet waste, soaps, vehicle fluids, and litter. This now polluted stormwater then empties directly into the nearest stream, wetland, or swimming beach without any treatment. This is different than water in our toilets and sinks, which goes to a treatment plant before being discharged to Puget Sound.

The City of Kirkland works hard to keep our streams, wetlands, and swimming beaches clean of pollutants by responding to spills 24/7/365.

Report spills 24/7 at (425) 587-3900

The City of Kirkland responds to spills 24/7! Report pollution washing into storm drains at our Spill Hotline, day or night, weekend or weekday, at (425) 587-3900. Take an easy step today and program the number into your phone so it’s easy to call when you see a problem.

The number of spills we respond to each year has grown from 21 in 2011 to 318 in 2022! That doesn’t necessarily mean more spills are happening, but it does mean our community has notified us of more spills, which means we’re able to respond to and clean up more pollution!

What counts as a spill?

Sediment, soap, and oil and hazardous materials are the pollutants we see most often. Mobile businesses and construction sites are the leading sources, but even households sometimes have spills.

“Spill” sounds impressive, like it’s only for big stuff, but it’s not — any pollution you see flowing into storm drains has an impact. Spills are stuff like:

• antifreeze
• motor oil
• soap suds
• concrete
• paint
• cooking oil

When in doubt, call it in!

Prevent Spills First!

You can prevent spills at home to help protect Kirkland’s streams and wetlands:

• Wash cars right
• Fix oil & vehicle fluid leaks
• Be a responsible DIY mechanic
• Store hazardous waste properly
• Choose responsible mobile businesses (like dogwashers and landscapers) that work to prevent pollution
• And more ideas here!

Thank you for your help keeping our streams, wetlands and beaches clean!

Thanks to Ryean-Marie Tuomisto, Water Quality Program Coordinator, for sharing about Kirkland’s Spill Hotline.