Helena in Phillips County, Arkansas — The American South (West South Central)
What is the impact of stormwater on the Mississippi?
The impact of stormwater runoff on the Mississippi River is an environmental concern. The quality and quantity of water in all of our streams, rivers, lakes, aquifers, and oceans is diminishing. We can reverse this negative trend by becoming aware of-and changing-many of our behaviors and practices.
Where do we want stormwater to go?
Our goal is to retain as much water as possible, ultimately allowing it to percolate through layers of the earth. This process filters the water and recharges our drinking water source.
How does stormwater runoff cause pollution?
As stormwater runs off impervious surfaces, such as roads, driveways, rooftops and parking lots, it picks up and carries oil, grease, fertilizers, pesticides, trash and other pollutants. This contaminated water enters a storm sewer system or flows directly into a stream, lake, river, wetland or coastal water. Runoff sediment, excess nutrients, trash, and household hazardous waste all have a direct and negative impact on plants, fish, animals and people.
Urban flooding
Our urban landscape forms vast areas of impervious surface. Flooding occurs when drainage systems cannot accommodate the large volume of water flowing off of these hard surfaces. This happens frequently during large rain events.
You can help!
There are many great ways to slow the movement of water at your home or business. As you try these green practices, you’ll help water percolate through the soil. You will be a positive contributor to the water quantity and quality issues that affect us all.
Place a rain barrel on your property and water your plants with the rainwater you collect.
Reduce or eliminate the use of dangerous chemicals, pesticides and fertilizers. Dispose of unused or empty containers properly.
Consider porous materials like pavers, cobblestone, brick and turf stone for driveways and walkways.
Create a rain garden.
This is a creative and beautiful way to capture runoff from rooftops, downspouts and areas that may sit at the base of a slope.
Use native plants. They adapt easily and don’t require the use of fertilizers. They will also attract birds, insects, butterflies, and other wildlife.
Plant ground cover. Replace large grassy areas with native ground cover, shrubs and trees. You’ll mow less and use less water!
Topics. This historical marker is listed in these topic lists: Animals • Environment • Industry & Commerce • Waterways & Vessels.
Location. 34° 31.3′ N, 90° 34.86′ W. Marker is in Helena, Arkansas, in Phillips County. Marker is on Perry Street. The marker is located on the boardwalk at Helena River Park. Touch for map. Marker is in this post office area: Helena AR 72342, United States of America. Touch for directions.
Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within walking distance of this marker. What is a bottled hardwood forest? (here, next to this marker); "the gunboat Tyler saved the day" (about 400 feet away, measured in a direct line); "Hell-in-Arkansas" (about 400 feet away); Helena and The Trail of Tears (approx. ¼ mile away); They Passed This Way (approx. ¼ mile away); The Battle of Helena (approx. ¼ mile away); River Birds (approx. ¼ mile away); Those who have come before (approx. ¼ mile away). Touch for a list and map of all markers in Helena.
Credits. This page was last revised on August 30, 2023. It was originally submitted on September 1, 2017, by Sandra Hughes Tidwell of Killen, Alabama, USA. This page has been viewed 252 times since then and 16 times this year. Last updated on August 29, 2023, by Carl Gordon Moore Jr. of North East, Maryland. Photos: 1, 2, 3. submitted on September 1, 2017, by Sandra Hughes Tidwell of Killen, Alabama, USA. • J. Makali Bruton was the editor who published this page.