Each winter, rain that does not soak into the ground runs off streets, parking lots, and roofs, picking up pet waste, oils, chemicals, and sediment along the way. In Arcata, that runoff enters a separate storm drain system that does not pass through the wastewater treatment plant—it flows directly toward creeks and Humboldt Bay.

Why the Bay Matters

Humboldt Bay is among the largest estuaries in California and supports diverse coastal habitat. City environmental staff note that even small spills or routine habits—like rinsing soapy water into a gutter—can add up across a watershed. The city’s seasonal messaging focuses on simple prevention: contain automotive fluids, pick up after pets, and avoid blowing yard debris into the street.

Reporting Spills

Residents who see an improper discharge into a street drain or creek are asked to call the City of Arcata Storm Water Hotline at (707) 822-8184 or email [email protected]. The Environmental Services Department can also advise on best practices for construction sites, businesses, and homeowners trying to stay compliant during heavy rains.

Stewardship on the North Coast

Stormwater rules sit alongside Arcata’s broader marsh restoration and open-space work, where wetlands help filter runoff before it reaches the bay. Public education campaigns tie individual behavior at the curb to the health of fisheries, eelgrass beds, and the working waterfront economies that depend on clean water.