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Sewer

Mayor Lurie's Newest Title? San Francisco's Chief Drain Adopter

Mayor Daniel Lurie with Jake Herson, Acting Wastewater Communications Manager.
Mayor Daniel Lurie with Jake Herson, Acting Wastewater Communications Manager.
  • Lydia Chan

When championing San Francisco’s programs, Mayor Daniel Lurie is not shy about getting his feet wet and leading from the front lines. During a major storm last year, he jumped in to help clear a drain and highlight the San Francisco Public Utilities Commission's (SFPUC) Adopt a Drain program.

That same commitment to service was on display this week when Mayor Lurie participated in the SFPUC’s Adopt a Drain supply giveaway. Ahead of an anticipated busy rainy season, San Francisco’s Drain-Adopter-in-Chief joined SFPUC staff to hand out rakes, gloves, and safety vests to neighborhood volunteers. 

Launched in 2016, the Adopt a Drain program enlists community members to help clear leaves and trash from their storm drains before storms hit, minimizing flooding and protecting the environment. With 25,000 drains across the City, these volunteers assist in keeping stormwater flowing where it should.

The SFPUC's Wastewater Sewer Operations team appreciates the help as they work year-round on preventive maintenance, check low-lying areas before storms, and work around the clock during storms responding to 311 requests to clear blocked drains. Since the program started, nearly 6,000 people have adopted close to 8,000 drains, according to Autumn Ross who helps lead the Adopt a Drain program.

Adopters also get to name their drains. This being San Francisco, there is no shortage of clever drain names, including: 

  • “It's Draining Men” 
  • “Drainmond Green” 
  • “Watergrate”
  • “Here Comes the Drain Again”