Clemson Artists Painted Local Storm Drains

The city initiative aims to educate residents on the importance of keeping Lake Hartwell water clean.

Updated on Oct. 8, 2026 in Painting

Clemson Artists Painted Local Storm Drains

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Local artists in Clemson have completed a series of storm drain paintings to highlight the connection between city drainage and Lake Hartwell. The project encourages residents to keep debris away from drains to protect the area's drinking water source.

Why it matters

The initiative uses public art as a tool to improve water quality awareness by visually linking street runoff to the local lake. By engaging the community, city officials hope to reduce pollution in the water supply.

A group of 15 local artists contributed to the second round of this public art initiative. The city-led project requires that all designs be submitted to and selected by the City of Clemson Art Center.

The players

City of Clemson Art Center

This local facility manages creative initiatives and acts as a central hub for community artistic programs.

Clemson Stormwater Division

This municipal department oversees drainage infrastructure and public water quality standards within the city.

The details

Artists collaborated with the City of Clemson Art Center and the stormwater division to design and paint images atop city storm drains. These drains carry water runoff directly into Lake Hartwell, which serves as a filtered drinking water source for the region.

October 8, 2026: The project reached completion and was reported.

Culture Shift

This project reflects a broader trend of municipalities using urban beautification to promote environmental stewardship. It aligns with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's Stormwater Phase II Rule public education requirements for local governments.

Residents are encouraged to keep storm drains free of debris and litter to ensure that runoff entering Lake Hartwell remains as clean as possible. This simple habit helps maintain the local drinking water quality for the entire community.

The takeaway

Using art to mark infrastructure is a practical way to turn mundane city features into educational tools. Residents can help by keeping lawn clippings and trash away from storm drains to prevent pollutants from reaching the local water supply.