Bluffton invites students to submit designs

The Town of Bluffton is inviting middle- and high-school students to take part in a Storm Drain Art Pilot Project aimed at raising awareness about stormwater pollution.

The Town is seeking digital artwork from students enrolled in Bluffton public schools to be featured on storm drains in Bluffton’s Historic District. Submissions must be received by Friday, March 6th, at 5 p.m.

The pilot project uses art as an educational tool to encourage residents to prevent litter, pet waste and other pollutants from entering the stormwater system. It will also evaluate the durability of outdoor vinyl decals, which are expected to last up to 12 months.

Participating schools have been assigned specific themes for student designs. May River High School students are encouraged to reflect the theme “Only rain down the drain,” while Bluffton High School’s theme is “Be a part of the solution, not water pollution.” McCracken Middle School students are asked to consider “Keep it clean, we’re all downstream,” Bluffton Middle School’s theme is “The river begins here,” and River Ridge Academy’s theme is “All drains lead to the ocean.” Exact wording does not need to appear in the artwork.

Winning designs will be printed on 3-foot by 2-foot vinyl decals and installed in areas with high pedestrian traffic within the Historic District. Selected student artists will be recognized on the Town’s website.

According to Town officials, the storm drainage system plays a key role in public safety by reducing flooding and directing rainwater away from streets and neighborhoods. Unlike wastewater, stormwater flows directly into local waterways, including the May River, carrying pollutants such as litter, pet waste, sediment, pesticides and motor oil.

Application and agreement forms, along with digital artwork submissions, must be submitted by the deadline. Full program details and eligibility requirements are available at townofbluffton.sc.gov/825/Storm-Drain-Art-Program.

Questions must be submitted before the deadline to Andrea Moreno, watershed division manager, at amoreno@townofbluffton.com.