Litter can make its way into local waterways, causing local water pollution as well as pollution in the San Francisco Bay. To address this problem, California’s Water Quality Control Board requires all San Francisco Bay Area cities and counties to reduce trash going into the Bay 40% by 2014, 70% by 2017, and 100% by 2022.

The City of Livermore is proactively working to meet the 40% trash reduction goal by banning plastic bags at most retailers; banning plastic foam packaging (e.g., Styrofoam) at restaurants; increasing street sweeping; installing and maintaining storm drain trash capture devices, and working together with residents and agencies to implement an Adopt a Creek Spot Program. Watch for more information about the Adopt a Creek Spot Program in the near future.

Check out the Be The Street You Want to See ANTI-LITTER VIDEO CONTEST Two categories: 14-17 years old and 18-24 years old Gift and cash prizes, with the grand prize winner's video aired on TV! Visit www.bethestreet.org/contest for details.

Click on the following links to learn more about keeping litter out of waterways.

• The Litter Problem
• How Long Litter Lasts
• Easy Ways to Prevent Litter
• Adopt-A-Creek-Spot