Street Art with a Purpose: 
Storm Drains Get a Splash of Color

If you’ve walked through Middleton recently, you might’ve noticed something unexpected near your feet—bright blue water, golden fish, and a bold reminder to “Keep it Clean.” It’s not just art for art’s sake—it’s part of the Ripple Effects Storm Drain Mural Program.

Led by artist Sonya Sankaran, this new mural transforms a storm drain into a conversation starter. The message is simple: what goes down our storm drains flows directly into local lakes, rivers, and streams. No treatment. No filters. Just a direct path from the pavement to the places we paddle, fish, and play.

These murals are designed to spark curiosity, connect people to their environment, and offer a colorful reminder that clean water starts with everyday choices—like keeping leaves, litter, and pollutants out of the street.

Curious how you can be part of it?

You don’t need a paintbrush to make an impact.
Learn more about how you can:

• Apply to paint a mural

• Adopt a storm drain in your neighborhood

A little creativity—and a little care—can go a long way toward protecting our local waters. Keep an eye out for these street-level masterpieces and join the effort to make clean water everyone’s business.