Advertisement

L.A. Waterkeeper inspectors keep their minds on the gutters

Share via

The environmental group’s DrainWatch program sends out Storm Water Assessment Teams to collect samples in an effort to force polluters to clean up. Their work has a black-ops feel. As they bottle up dirty water, investigators keep a low profile, look over their shoulders and eye passersby with suspicion -- and not without reason. Though they collect the samples from public sidewalks or streets, they’ve been chased off and even threatened by hostile property owners.

Advertisement