Transforming Storm Drains into Messages: Educating Through Art in Baker Cove

What is the problem?

While learning about their local watershed, 5th grade students at Thames River Magnet School discovered that pollution, especially runoff, is a serious issue affecting nearby waterways. During their investigation of the school grounds, they identified storm drains in the parking lot and traced the flow of water from those drains to Birch Plain Creek, then to Baker Cove, and ultimately to Long Island Sound. They learned that Baker Cove is classified as an “impaired” water body, meaning it is polluted and in need of restoration.

Why is this important to the area?

Pollution in Baker Cove isn’t just an environmental issue-it has real consequences for the local community. Because contaminants from stormwater runoff enter the Cove untreated, shellfish harvested from these waters must undergo additional cleaning before they can be sold. This not only affects the health of the ecosystem but also impacts the local economy and food supply.

For the students, learning about this connection made the issue real. They could see how something as simple as runoff from their school grounds contributes to a chain of impacts that reaches local businesses, community health, and the overall well‑being of Long Island Sound.

What did we do about it?

To raise awareness and take action, students transformed storm drains into colorful, eye-catching educational tools. They designed and painted vibrant artwork around the storm drains to draw attention to where the water flows and why it matters. Students also installed storm drain markers with the message “Only Rain Down the Drain” to remind the community that these drains lead directly to natural waterways. Through their campaign, students emphasized how simple everyday choices, like keeping litter, chemicals and other pollutants off the ground, can make a meaningful difference in protecting the Baker Cove watershed and the health of Long Island Sound.

What did we find?

The school community responded enthusiastically to the students’ artwork and messaging. The visual reminders sparked conversations about water pollution and helped people understand how runoff from the parking lot flows into Birch Plain Creek, Baker Cove, Pine Island Bay, and eventually Long Island Sound.

The project has already grown, with two storm drains now painted and more planned for the future. Students are proud to see their work making a visible difference on campus, and their efforts are inspiring others to think about how everyday actions can protect the watershed.

Who was involved?

This project was led by 5th grade students and teachers at Thames River Magnet School in Groton, working closely with Project Oceanology educators and supported by the NOAA Bay Watershed Education and Training (B-WET) Program.

The Baker Cove Watershed Committee, a volunteer group committed to reducing non‑point source pollution, also played an important role. Their watershed map helped students visualize how water moves from their school grounds to Long Island Sound. Inspired by what they learned, the students now hope to collaborate with the committee to update the map to reflect new pollution‑prevention efforts sparked by their project.