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Category: San Mateo County News

Green Infrastructure is one of the most effective ways to manage stormwater runoff sustainably in our communities. By catching, storing, and treating rainwater, green infrastructure (commonly referred to as GI) helps us pave the way to a cleaner, greener tomorrow, whether in the face of larger storms or to build resilience during drought.

What is Green Infrastructure?

Green Infrastructure is a term that loosely refers to nature-based, engineered solutions to minimize stormwater runoff, with pollutant removal and flow control benefits. Operating on scales ranging from sidewalk installations to complete ecosystem restructuring, GI includes a number of infrastructure solutions that work together to improve the environment through nature-based, urban greening, and community enhancement projects.

GI sites are a cost-effective and resilient approach to managing wet weather and pollutants associated with stormwater runoff.

Here are some commonly featured components of GI projects and installations:

  • Biotreatment soil media – specially engineered soils designed to soak up soil relatively quickly while cleaning out pollutants
  • Mulch – helps retain moisture and maintain plant health
  • “Curb-cuts” – enable runoff to flow from streets, roads and parking lots into green infrastructure
  • Specialized vegetation – trees, sedges, rushes, and other perennials uniquely adapted to both wet and dry periods
  • Rain barrels/cisterns – harvesting and reusing rainwater is a great way for homeowners to reduce pollution, conserve water and minimize stormwater runoff impacts
  • Permeable/pervious paving – specialized pavers and paving materials that soak up runoff and allow stormwater to stay in place and infiltrate underlying soils or get cleaned up before going down the storm drain 
  • Green roofs – shallow vegetated roof systems can help cool buildings, reduce runoff and beautify our neighborhoods

There are many great design examples in our Green Infrastructure Design Guide. Click to link to view more! www.flowstobay.org/gidg

GI installations filter rainwater that would otherwise flow over permeable surfaces, collecting pollutants along the way before the dirty runoff drains to local water bodies, like creeks, the Bay, and the Oceans. Aside from the core functions of GI, these innovative green facilities also result in environmental health benefits and community climate resiliency by managing flood risks, preparing for drought conditions, lowering heat island effects, and more.

Reducing Stormwater Pollution

GI provides natural filtration which reduces water pollutants from entering water bodies when it rains. 

Decreasing Flooding 

With the recent storms in San Mateo County and surrounding areas, there is a greater risk of flooding in areas with inadequate drainage networks. Green infrastructure helps mitigate flooding by increasing opportunities to slow the flow of water and improve existing drainage in these areas.

Preparing for Drought and Storming 

When GI projects can absorb water, the retained water replenishes groundwater reserves. In some areas, during storm events, GI can absorb significant volumes of water, while excess runoff.

Supporting Wildlife

Green infrastructure projects also increase the natural habitat for wildlife – which helps the ecosystem thrive and maintain balance.

Lowering the Heat Island Effect

Adding trees and plant life to urban areas reduces “urban heat island” impacts where predominantly hardened landscapes and development cause radically warmer ambient air temperatures, especially during high-heat days. GI can naturally cool these areas, resulting in more comfortable living conditions.

Adding Beauty to San Mateo County 

There’s no denying that green infrastructure beautifies the landscape, adding life and vibrancy while combating stormwater pollution and increasing climate resiliency.

Green Infrastructure at Washington Park in Burlingame.
Stormwater improvements along Old County Road by the East Side Connect Project in Belmont.
Stormwater improvements to Colma Town Hall.

GI Is A Game Changer In Stormwater Pollution Prevention

As we experience an increase in downpours, our existing green infrastructure projects in San Mateo County are working to effectively capture stormwater. When drought conditions re-emerge, the captured stormwater will help us through the dry spell. 

GI is a game changer when chaotic water cycles present themselves. Water that might otherwise flood structures, contaminate water sources, or flow out to the Bay or Ocean unused is instead put to use for our communities in a variety of ways.

Latest Additions In GI Across San Mateo County

Some of the latest completed GI facilities in San Mateo can be found along San Mateo Dr. The project sits between the sidewalk and bike lane and collects stormwater, assists with flooding, and increases safety for cyclists and pedestrians by adding a buffer to the sidewalk and more visibility along the roadside.

New GI Project on San Mateo Dr. in San Mateo

We welcome you to explore our GI story map where we showcase additional areas of green infrastructure throughout our beautiful county. This map will help you locate green infrastructure projects near you.

Improving your garden by introducing native plant life is an easy and visually attractive way to protect our water resources from stormwater (rainwater) pollution! Native plants act as the “first line of defense” and filter pollutants that would otherwise travel to waterways. Working as a natural filtration system is just one of the many environmental benefits native plants provide.

The Benefits of California Native Plants

With winter on the horizon and the rainy season among us, now is the time to consider how colder and wetter conditions impact water conservation efforts in our yard and garden. California is still in a drought, so make the most of the gift of rain this season and incorporate native plants into your landscape to maximize the benefits of rain while minimizing rainwater runoff pollution!

San Mateo County receives an average of 24 inches of rain per year, with the rainy season lasting from October to May. During this period, the excess rainwater that does not soak into the ground travels on streets and pavements (also known as impermeable surfaces) and will pick up pollutants along the way into storm drains, which drain into local creeks, the San Francisco Bay, and the Pacific Ocean. Because native plants are best suited for the semi–Mediterranean climate, their deep roots absorb rainwater and prevent runoff from ever reaching these impermeable surfaces.

(Native plants absorb excess rainwater and prevent runoff from reaching impermeable surfaces.)

Permeable surfaces on the other hand work to counter the effects of runoff from rainwater and irrigation. Permeable surfaces are areas of land that contain materials such as mulch and turf. These materials allow water to trickle through while filtering out pollutants. There are also permeable paving surfaces for driveways and walkways, such as interlocking concrete pavers, porous asphalt, and pervious concrete. The combination of native plants and permeable surface materials prevents harmful chemicals and waste from traveling through the environment when it rains.

When deciding which native plants to surround your permeable walkways and driveway, consider adding Yerba buena, Hummingbird sage, or other climate-friendly plants. These plants do well in areas like San Mateo County, meaning you can enjoy a thriving yard that’s both beautiful and environmentally beneficial all season long. For more plant-related recommendations, check out these resources from the UC Master Gardeners of San Mateo & San Francisco Counties.

Maximize the Power of Native Plants with Your Very Own Rain Garden!

Have you heard about rain gardens? Do you know how they work? If not, we’ve got you covered!

A rain garden isn’t a garden of rain – it’s actually a garden comprised of native shrubs, flowers, and perennials planted in a shallow hole made for rainwater collection. Rain gardens with native plants are a powerhouse for rainwater absorption.

(Rain gardens help reduce runoff and support local waterways.)

Rain gardens are both aesthetically pleasing and environmentally functional. The strategic placement of rain gardens allows rain runoff (or stormwater runoff) to absorb into the garden’s flower bed, soaking up the rainwater that would usually sit at the foundation of your house or erode your soil. 

To help you install your own rain garden and convert a traditional lawn to a water-efficient landscape at the same time, check out the Bay Area Water Supply and Conservation Agency’s (BAWSCA) “Lawn Be Gone” community-based rebate program. If you are a customer of a BAWSCA member agency, you are eligible to receive $1-4 per square foot of lawn replaced and can earn an additional $300 by adding a rain garden!

To see if you’re part of a BAWSCA member agency and for more information about the “Lawn Be Gone” rebate with rain garden addition, visit our “Rain Gardens & Rebate Program” web page here.

Support Our Waterways and Your Wallet through Rainwater Harvesting

(Collecting rainwater in barrels and cisterns is optimal and more cost-effective for watering plants than tap water.)

Rain barrels are containers positioned next to homes and other standing structures that collect water from downspouts or gutter converters during rainfall. Cisterns are large tanks used for the same purpose – usually for large properties and commercial buildings.

The water collected in rain barrels can feed the native plants in your garden during drought, which cuts down on potable water usage and reduces your water bill. Further, rainwater is optimal for gardening because rainwater is free of the chemicals and additives that are present in tap water, which compromises soil quality over time.

Like native plants, rain barrels and cisterns collect rainwater that would otherwise run onto the pavement/street and wash pollutants, debris (leaves), and chemicals (like motor oil) into nearby waterways through storm drains. When this happens, the water quality and organisms that live in neighborhood creeks, the San Francisco Bay, and the Pacific Ocean are impacted.

Learn more about the benefits of owning a rain barrel, the countywide rain barrel rebate, and if you qualify for an additional rebate from BAWSCA here. The combined rebates can cover up to 100% of the per-barrel price (pre-tax) for qualifying applicants!

Use Your Winter Garden to Improve San Mateo County

Use this winter season to make the most of natural resources. Turn rain (or stormwater) runoff into nutrients for plants and wildlife when you use rainwater collection in your winter gardening routine. Score some environmental brownie points by using native plants in your winter landscape, installing a rain garden, or using rain barrels to conserve water.

Simple actions like adding native plants and installing rain barrels and rain gardens are essential to creating a more resilient ecosystem in San Mateo County now and for future generations. Used individually or in unison, these actions significantly impact the surrounding environment and can benefit wildlife, preserve water and soil quality, and make San Mateo County a healthier place to live.

To learn more about stormwater pollution, native plants, rain barrels, and rain gardens, visit flowstobay.org.

Share a photo of you with your rain barrel setup, tag @Flowstobay in your caption on Instagram and Facebook, and be sure to include the hashtag #FlowsToBarrel – we’d love to see you in action making that positive impact!

(Shaleen of Redwood City with her 50-gallon rain barrel.)

Illegal dumping and littering have big consequences that small actions can avoid. 


The consequences of illegal dumping are much more than a $10,000 fine; local governments in California spend tens of millions of dollars to remove illegally dumped materials. But even then, the cost to human health and the environment is immeasurable.

What is Illegal Dumping and Littering?

At the most basic level, illegal dumping and littering refer to the act of discarding waste where it doesn’t belong. Typically, “illegal dumping” refers to improperly discarding large volumes of material while “littering” refers to improperly discarding smaller volumes. Whether it be mattresses left on the sidewalk, appliances left on the highway, or plastic bottles left on the ground, littering and illegal dumping are huge issues for the health of our waterways and community.

Choking Our Waterways

Aside from the visual impact of illegal dumping and littering, many illegally dumped materials and litter contain:

  • Chemicals like PFAS (long-lasting chemicals that break down very slowly and have been linked to many health problems)
  • Heavy metals
  • Pesticides
  • Other toxins

When discarded items are left outside on streets, sidewalks and vacant lots, sun exposure, wind and rain can cause these things to break into smaller fragments that are more easily mobilized and carried to storm drains and waterways. Toxins can also leach into water and may travel through the soil into underlying aquifers.

Additionally, marine life is known to ingest microplastics, which are small particles that humans may consume when we eat seafood. Non-aquatic wildlife may also mistake debris for food, and the overall ecosystem can suffer. Even If not consumed, a wide array of pollutants can end up in the same waterways that provide the fish that we eat and the recreational opportunities we all enjoy.

Provide Solutions, Not Pollution

We must all be diligent to protect our waterways against litter and illegally dumped materials and hold our community accountable. Here are some ways you can be part of the solution:

  1. Remember that ONLY water should go down the storm drains. Never drain wash water, chlorinated pool water, automotive fluids, paints, or other contaminants down the storm drain system.
  2. Stay vigilant and properly dispose of your items. Learn what items are household hazardous waste (HHW), and find your nearest HHW disposal center here. 
  3. Participating in a community cleanup is a great way to get involved. Check out our event calendar for the next cleanup near you. 
  4. Whenever possible, go reusable. Carry a refillable water bottle when you’re out and about, ask for a reusable cup when enjoying coffee at a cafe, and shop at bulk goods stores that allow you to use reusable containers. We featured one such local zero-waste shop in a recent blog post.
  5. If you witness or discover illegal dumping, the best thing you can do is report it. 

City-Specific Resources to Report Illegal Dumping

MunicipalityNumber(s) to CallEmail, Form, or AppReport Illegal Dumping In Progress
Atherton(650) 363-4125
Belmont(650) 595-7425pworks@belmont.gov
Brisbane(415) 508-2130
Burlingame(650) 558-7670accessBurlingamePolice Department: (650) 777-4100
Colma(650) 757-8888
after hours: (650) 997-8321		Online Form
Daly City(650) 991-8200Daly City iHelp AppPolice Department: (650) 992-1225
East Palo Alto(650) 853-7253Online FormPolice Dispatch: (650) 321-1112
Foster City(650) 286-3238Foster City Access App
Half Moon Bay (650) 726-8288
Hillsborough (650) 375-7444
(650) 330-6600		ACT Menlo Park AppPolice Department: (650) 375-7470
Millbrae(650) 259-2300
Pacifica(650) 738-7344
(650) 738-3760		Online FormPolice Department: (650) 738-7314
Portola Valley (650) 363-4911PV Connect
Redwood City (650) 780-7464myRWC App
San Bruno (650) 616-7160Online Form
San Carlos (650) 802-4261Online Form
building@cityofsancarlos.org
San Mateo (650) 522-730Police Department: (650) 522-7700
South San Francisco(650) 829-3848Police Department: (650) 877-8900
Unincorporated SMCReport It! SMC
Woodside(650) 372-620

More information: 

After the large success of last year’s pilot rain barrel program, Flows To Bays is happy to announce the program has been brought back and is now open to San Mateo County residents and businesses.

Flows To Bay has again partnered with Rain Water Solutions (a certified B corporation) to acquire barrels in bulk directly. This translates into significant cost savings for San Mateo County residents and businesses! As part of this program, each barrel will cost $80 (pre-tax)—over a 40% discount from the retail amount. Qualifying applicants can also apply for the countywide rebate after rain barrel purchase and installation, which may cover up to 100% of the purchase price for specific water districts. Learn how much of a rebate your qualify for here.

With San Mateo County in an extreme drought, it is more important than ever to conserve as much water as possible. For every inch that falls on a 500-square-foot area, a rain barrel can collect 310 gallons. The 726 rain barrels purchased from our program last year will capture 36,000 gallons of water each time the barrels are filled!

Rain Barrel Program

This year, the rain barrel quantity available to the San Mateo County public has increased to 1,320, available on a first-come, first-serve basis.

Get Program Details

Beyond the water conservation and financial benefits, capturing rainwater also improves the water quality of our local creeks, the San Francisco Bay, and the Pacific Ocean. Rainfall funnels into streets, collecting urban pollutants from all surfaces, including roofs. These pollutants then flow into storm drains and nearby waterways without treatment. Runoff is the number one source of pollution in our waterways nationwide.

“Preventing rainwater from flowing off properties and into the streets and storm drains is a win-win environmental strategy for restoring the health of our coastal waters,” said Reid Bogert,  C/CAG Sr. Stormwater Program Specialist.

“While our cities are doing a lot to prevent pollution, residents can join the cause one barrel at a time to manage rainwater on their properties. A single rain barrel is small in scale compared to the amount of rain San Mateo County receives in a wet season. Still, if everyone is empowered to help restore our coastal environments, the cumulative impact will be considerable.”

Flows To Bay is a program of the City/County Association of Governments of San Mateo County (C/CAG). Through the stormwater program, C/CAG helps fund the countywide rain barrel rebate program in partnership with the Bay Area Water Supply & Conservation Agency (BAWSCA) and member water agencies.

Did you know that over 10 million tons of plastic are dumped into the ocean yearly? Our oceans and marine life are drowning in plastic – most of which are single-use materials. On the bright side, big changes are coming to address this massive issue. On June 30th, Senate Bill 54 (SB 54) was signed into the California State Legislature. Specifically addressing plastic production and producer responsibility, this bill can shift the tide regarding plastic pollution and its impact on our waterways

What is SB 54?

The Plastic Pollution Prevention and Packaging Producer Responsibility Act, or Senate Bill 54, sets stringent timelines to reduce and eliminate the production of single-use plastics in California. With the timelines requiring a transition to recyclable or compostable packaging, this bill ensures that the packaging industry takes action towards a pollution-free environment. The bill sets the following goals:

  • By 2032, 25% less plastic packaging will be produced. Of the single-use plastics still being made, 65% must be compostable or recyclable. 
  • A Producer Responsibility Organization (PRO) will be created to oversee and enforce regulations on single-use plastic producers.  
  • Single-use plastic producers will be required to pay an annual mitigation fee of $500 million, all of which will go towards mitigating the effects of single-use plastic on the environment and human health

Why SB 54 Is a Win for Stormwater

90% of plastic in the ocean is windblown and waterborne from urban areas, meaning that stormwater is one of the most common ways plastic gets transported to larger bodies of water. When plastic enters bodies of water, animals may entangle themselves in plastic materials or  mistake plastic for food. Additionally, plastic products may break into smaller and smaller pieces, which are considered microplastics when they reach less than 5 millimeters in size. When marine life ingests microplastics, human health is at risk because we eat the seafood that has ingested microplastics! With less plastic produced, less plastic will enter our waterways and pollute our ecosystems and community.

“True Source Control (the elimination of a pollutant at its source) and the use of alternative products offers the most effective and economical approach to the elimination of many pollutants that impair the beneficial uses of California’s waterways.”

Karen cowan, Executive Director of the California Stormwater Quality Association

Zero-Waste Initiatives Near You!

San Mateo County agencies and businesses have already been taking steps to cut back on single-use plastics! 
In a recent blog, we share the story of Byrd’s Filling Station, San Mateo County’s first zero-waste store. Here, you can bring reusable bags and containers to fill up on bulk foods and household items.  Additionally, Reusable San Mateo County partners with local food businesses to incorporate reusable containers in lieu of single-use plastic. Find locations implementing reusable/non-plastic practices near you using this map!

“Waste” No Time- Stay Updated 

As the transition away from single-use plastic continues, see the change for yourself and try taking small steps to introduce zero-waste behaviors into your lifestyle. Share your efforts with us on social media! 

Byrd’s Filling Station is clearing the way to a low waste future right here in San Mateo County! 

Laura Porter, owner of Byrd’s and our newest community champion, is helping residents conveniently reduce waste while minimizing the harmful impacts plastic can have on our health, wildlife, and our waterways. As Laura notes, plastic unfortunately comes with an immense amount of pollution, from its fossil fuel beginnings all the way to the leaching of chemicals into our soil, air, water, and even our bodies. Meanwhile, many of us are reliant on plastics in our day-to-day lives despite our best intentions!

“Byrd’s Filling Station was created to make it easy to replace items that would typically come in single-use plastic packaging with reusable or more sustainable alternatives, as well as offering a way to refill those containers over and over with consumable household goods.” 

— Laura Porter

Laura’s Low Waste Lifestyle Journey

Laura’s determination to reduce plastic waste all started back in 2018 with the “Plastic Free July” movement. After hearing about other people’s zero waste efforts (like fitting a year’s worth of garbage in a mason jar!) Laura set out to do a week’s worth of grocery shopping for her family of four with a commitment to zero plastic.  “I walked out of the store that day with a baguette, a dozen eggs, and a little bit of fresh produce. That was when I noticed that there was a need in the community for a store that offered better packaging alternatives.” 

After a ton of dedicated research and sampling of plastic-free products, Laura’s efforts quickly blossomed into a desire to help not only to her own family, but also to the local community. Laura began by selling plastic-free products at farmers markets and eventually switched over to home delivery during the pandemic. In June 2022, the Byrd’s Filling Station storefront opened.

Clean Products, Inside & Out 

The efforts of Byrd’s Filling Station help keep our waterways clean by offering products that are free of toxins and plastic packaging–both of which sadly end up as water pollution more often than not. 

As Laura says, “plastic is a lightweight material that can very easily become airborne and accidentally become a pollutant.” Laura went on to explain how even if someone properly places a plastic water bottle in a blue recycling bin, it can easily fall out if the bin is disturbed by wildlife, winds, or the process of a hauler emptying and transporting it to a recycling center. “In all of those scenarios, that bottle is almost guaranteed to end up in our waterways eventually… and that is assuming someone was well-intentioned and did it correctly!”

Aside from the plastic-free packaging, the products that Byrd’s sells are safe for both our little ones and our precious waterways. Laura notes, “While I have cut out products that directly expose me and my family to carcinogenic chemicals, it’s also important to understand the impact that our chosen products have as they continue downstream after we use them. That’s why at Byrd’s Filling Station, we’re picky about the products just as much as we are about the packaging, and all of our refillable laundry detergents are greywater safe!”

Taking the First Steps

Going “zero waste” may seem incredibly daunting, and may not be 100% realistic for everyone depending on lifestyle, family needs, and access to low waste products. Even the state of California is committed to reducing plastic pollution with a recently signed piece of legislation that requires all packaging to be recyclable or compostable of 2032.

While Byrd’s Filling Station has already met that goal, even Laura admits that “Zero waste is really an ideal, or a philosophy…. but what’s important is to make an effort.” 

We asked Laura for a few pieces of advice she would give to someone wanting to start their own low waste or plastic-free journey:

  1. Small steps count: “The best suggestion for changing habits is to do it slowly. Trying to change everything in your life at the same time can feel overwhelming or complex, and lead people to give up on even trying.  So swap out one or 2 things at a time, and then choose the next swap once that feels normal.”
  2. Choose where you shop wisely: “And secondly – shop at places that make it easy!  Shopping at Costco or Target just guarantees lots of plastic packaging – so pick another retailer for your needs, and be intentional about what you buy and where you shop. 
  3. Use social media: Plug #zerowaste or #plasticfree into social media a couple times and let the algorithm bring inspiration to you.”

While we don’t all need to fit an entire year’s worth of household trash in a mason jar, we can certainly do our part in reducing the amount of plastic in our lives. Byrd’s Filling Station is a fantastic example of how one person can inspire many to get involved in keeping our environment and health safe without sacrificing convenience or quality. By making simple swaps and starting small, every simple action adds up to a cleaner San Mateo County.

On Saturday, January 29, 2022, Flows To Bay held an event to distribute 396 pre-purchased 50-gallon rain barrels to San Mateo County residents. Residents from 17 of the county’s 20 cities and towns and unincorporated areas picked up their barrels at Lyngso Garden Materials in San Carlos.

We distributed 396 50-gallon rain barrels.
Residents stayed in their vehicles as barrels were loaded.
Residents stayed in their vehicles as barrels were loaded.
Flows To Bay staff and volunteers from the San Mateo County Office of Sustainability helped load barrels into resident’s vehicles.

This was Flows To Bay’s second rain barrel distribution event in three months and was organized to accommodate residents’ unexpected enthusiasm for rain barrels. This program was initially launched as a pilot program in September 2021 as an effective water capture and conservation strategy against California’s ongoing drought condition. Flows To Bay distributed 330 purchased rain barrels at the first event on November 13, 2021. After this initial event, there were still nearly 200 residents on the waitlist for a rain barrel, prompting a relaunch of the program once inventory became available.

“This program aimed to educate residents about the water conservation and pollution prevention aspects of rain while providing an easy and affordable way to take action. The countywide rain barrel rebate funded by the City/County Association of Governments of San Mateo County and agency partners coupled with this rain barrel program is just one way that we hope to underscore just how valuable water is as a resource. Clean water, a healthy community—it’s truly a team effort!”

REID BOGERT,  C/CAG STORMWATER PROGRAM SPECIALIST

The countywide rain barrel rebate program that provides a minimum $50 rebate per rain barrel. Residents can take advantage of the rain barrel rebate program with any qualifying rain barrel purchase and can get additional information at flowstobay.org/rainbarrel. 

Beyond water conservation, capturing rainwater also improves the water quality of our local creeks, the San Francisco Bay, and the Pacific Ocean. Rainfall funnels into streets, collecting urban pollutants from all surfaces, including roofs. These pollutants then flow into storm drains and nearby waterways without treatment. Runoff is the number one source of pollution in our waterways nationwide. Rain barrels help reduce the number of pollutants that reach our waterways.

Reid Bogert, C/CAG Stormwater Program Specialist, loads rain barrels into a truck bed.

Just how much of an impact did this program have?

At 50-gallon capacity a piece, the combined 726 rain barrels purchased from this program will be able to capture 36,300 gallons of water each time the barrels are filled. This also means 36,300 gallons of runoff that won’t enter our waterways, reducing the amount of pollutants that reach our waterways.

This program far exceeded its initial goal of selling 100 rain barrels. San Mateo County residents showed such enthusiasm for conserving water with rain barrels that several individuals waited until after the distribution event ended for the possibility to buy unclaimed rain barrels.

“It’s very exciting and encouraging to see such enthusiasm and increased demand for this bulk discounted rain barrel program, as we approach our second event. C/CAG works on various issues that affect quality of life in San Mateo County, including addressing stormwater runoff and planning for climate change, among others. This rain barrel program attempts to address water resilience from a holistic standpoint, while bringing accessible and affordable options into our communities. This is exactly the type of impact we strive to make. We could not be happier with the results of this program and look forward to expanding it in years to come.”

MARIE CHUANG, CHAIR OF THE C/CAG BOARD OF DIRECTORS AND COUNCILMEMBER, TOWN OF HILLSBOROUGH

Residents may still take advantage of the rain barrel rebate program with any qualifying rain barrel purchase. To learn more visit flowstobay.org/rainbarrel.

On Saturday, November 13, 2021, Flows To Bay held an event to distribute 330 USA-made, 50-gallon rain barrels purchased during its pilot program to San Mateo County residents. Residents from 18 of the county’s 20 cities and towns and unincorporated areas, picked up their barrels at the City of San Mateo Public Works facility located at 1949 Pacific Blvd, San Mateo, CA.

Members from the City of San Mateo Public Works team helped load barrels into resident’s vehicles

Launched in late September as an effective water capture and conservation strategy against California’s ongoing drought condition, rain barrels for this program sold out in just four weeks. By capturing rainwater during the upcoming wet winter months, rain barrels help cut back potable water used for irrigation and can help mitigate future drought conditions by providing storage for drier months. Captured rainwater is ideal for outdoor use, but can also be used to offset some indoor water use, such as taking care of houseplants.

“This program aimed to educate residents about the water conservation and pollution prevention aspects of rain while providing an easy and affordable way to take action. The countywide rain barrel rebate funded by the City/County Association of Governments of San Mateo County and agency partners coupled with this rain barrel program is just one way that we hope to underscore just how valuable water is as a resource. Clean water, a healthy community—it’s truly a team effort!”

Reid Bogert,  C/CAG Stormwater Program Specialist

Beyond water conservation, capturing rainwater also improves the water quality of our local creeks, the San Francisco Bay, and the Pacific Ocean. Rainfall funnels into streets, collecting urban pollutants from all surfaces, including roofs. These pollutants then flow into storm drains and nearby waterways without treatment. Runoff is the number one source of pollution in our waterways nationwide. Rain barrels help reduce the number of pollutants that reach our waterways.

Residents stayed in their vehicles as they were checked in and had barrels loaded.

Just how much of an impact did this program have?

At 50-gallon capacity a piece, the purchased rain barrels from this program would collectively capture up to 16,500 gallons of water each time the barrels are filled—which would only require an eighth of an inch of rain falling on a 500 square foot roof area. After just one inch of rain, perhaps over a couple of weeks to allow refilling, these rain barrels could capture as much as 132,000 gallons!

The initial goal for this program was to get 100 rain barrels sold, but the program maxed out the available inventory with over triple that amount. Flows To Bay is also working on a solution to provide the almost 200 San Mateo County residents on the current waitlist with the same great offer, once inventory is available and a new host site is selected. Residents interested in signing up for the waitlist may do so at flowstobay.org/waitlist.

“This is exactly the kind of engagement and community support we are seeking to provide through the Countywide Stormwater Program and our longstanding partnership with BAWSCA on the Rain Barrel Rebate Program. As seen through the tremendous interest in and enthusiastic turnout for this unique pre-order rain barrel campaign event, our residents are thirsty for ways to improve their sustainable use of water, help protect the environment, and buffer the effects of climate change, locally and beyond. We’re thrilled with the results of this pilot campaign, and look forward to expanding it in future years.”


Marie Chuang, Chair of the C/CAG Board of Directors and Councilmember, Town of Hillsborough

Residents may still take advantage of the rain barrel rebate program with any qualifying rain barrel purchase. To learn more visit flowstobay.org/rainbarrel.

The time for king tides is once again on the horizon. A topic of curiosity for beach-goers and scientists alike, king tides are interesting marine phenomena, opportunities for exploration, and time machines all wrapped up in one 6-hour event. 

What is a King Tide?

King tides are exceptionally high tides that occur a few times each year. They happen when the moon is both as close as it can get to earth and in line with the sun. On those special days, when the gravity of the moon and sun act on the earth in a single direction, we see the ocean rise to its highest highs and lowest lows. 

When, Where & How High?

Keep an eye out for king tides hitting your area on the following dates:

  • December 4 & 5, 2021
  • January 1, 2022 (North of Ventura County only)
  • January 2 & 3, 2022

Find out what time, location, and how high King Tides will be near you using the map below.

Why Do King Tides Matter? 

What comes in, must go out! While king tides are mostly known for their capacity to flood our coastal communities, their corresponding low tides are a great time to explore tide pools. Just make sure to follow good tide pool etiquette and carefully keep the exposed animals and ecosystem safe. You can find low tide times in your area using the map above.

But the value of king tides doesn’t stop there! As the Exploratorium’s Lori Lambertson points out, “Today’s king tides are tomorrow’s regular high tides.” King tides help us visualize what the coastline may look like in the future of global climate change. As greenhouse gas emissions warm our planet and climate systems become destabilized, we’re on course to potentially face dramatically higher sea levels and more frequent storm surges. King tides help us see how our communities will be affected by these rising seas and more frequent storms. 

Share Your King Tides Experience

In light of the window that king tides give us into a future with higher seas, the California Coastal Commission has created a project to help document how these changes may impact different parts of the coast. You can submit your photos of the king tides to the California King Tides Project, and your photos will be displayed on an interactive map.

Just make sure to stay safe while you’re out there! Always be aware of your surroundings and weather conditions, and never turn your back to the ocean. 

With the help of residents like you, we can gather valuable information that will help us prepare our communities for the future. The County of San Mateo’s Office of Sustainability is also doing a lot of work to better understand the future of sea-level rise in our area and what local municipalities can do to plan for a future of change. Click here to learn more about these local climate change efforts.

Do you have questions about what Flows To Bay is doing to adapt to the precipitation-related impacts of climate change in San Mateo County? We’re here for you! Contact us here.

From left to right: prior SSF Mayor – Karol Matsumoto, SSF City Manager – Mike Futrell, SSF Vice Mayor – Beunaflor Nicolas, Caltrans District 4 Chief Deputy District Director – Dave Ambuehl, SSF Mayor – Mark Nogales, Assemblymember – Kevin Mullin, C/CAG Chair – Davina Hurt, Councilmember – Mark Addiego, San Mateo County Supervisor – Dave Pine, SSF Councilmember – James Coleman.

An exciting new stormwater project was recently completed in May 2022! The Orange Memorial Park Regional Stormwater Capture Project is designed to capture, treat, and filter stormwater to remove contaminants. The water will then be used to irrigate the park and recharge the groundwater aquifer. 

200 Million Gallons of Water

Image from the Orange Memorial Park Educational Placard

Rain falling east of the Santa Cruz Mountain range drains into the San Francisco Bay. Also called stormwater runoff, this rain may carry trash and other pollutants with it as it flows to the San Francisco Bay. One of the waterways that carries this runoff is Colma Creek, which drains over 6,500 acres of land in Colma, Daly City, Pacifica, South San Francisco, and San Bruno. A portion of the Colma Creek runs through Orange Memorial Park where the newly completed regional stormwater capture project will be able to capture, treat, and reuse 200 million gallons of water each year!

Schematic of water flow and cleaning processes in and around Orange Memorial Park courtesy of the City of South San Francisco.  

What Are The Benefits of the Orange Memorial Park Project?

This project, the first-of-its-kind in Northern California, will divert and capture stormwater from the Colma Creek Watershed.

Some of the benefits of this project include:

  • Cleaning and saving water for non-potable use: Water from Colma Creek will be diverted and treated to remove trash, sediment, and pollutants such as mercury and polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs). It will then be stored in a cistern underneath the park for further disinfection and used for irrigation and other non-potable water use. This will save over 15 million gallons of potable water each year, all while reducing local flood risk.
  • Recharging groundwater: Once the cistern is full, additional water will be infiltrated into the Westside Groundwater Basin, recharging 55 million gallons of groundwater each year. Groundwater recharge is an important water management practice in California because groundwater has been overused in recent decades, leading to dry wells, sinking land, and saltwater intrusion from the ocean.
  • Protecting the environment: When the underground water storage system is full, 130 million gallons of cleaned water will be returned to Colma Creek, improving the water quality in the creek and Bay. This will prevent pollutants such as mercury and PCBs—which are harmful to humans and wildlife—from polluting the San Francisco Bay.
  • Renovating the athletics field: In Phase 2 of this project, the Orange Memorial Park athletics field will be renovated, something the community has long been advocating for. This will enhance recreational opportunities for the local community, providing a space for baseball, softball, and soccer.

Now that the project is completed, what’s next?

Construction on this stormwater capture project began in early 2021 and was completed May 2022, with the official ribbon cutting happening on June 10, 2022. The project was led and constructed by the City of South San Francisco, with funding provided by Caltrans. Details on the project can be found here.

In 2023, Phase 2 of this project will begin. In line with the City’s Capital Improvement Program, the sports field above the water treatment facility will be rebuilt with improvements. More information on Phase 2 can be found here. 

Orange Memorial Park Conceptual Design 2021 
Please note: This will be updated as designs become more finalized
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