Cleanlet

Keep Inlets Clean! is a community science project that uses the Cleanlet app to help prevent flooding by keeping stormwater sewer inlets clear of leaves, litter, and other debris. When debris blocks an inlet, stormwater may not drain properly, increasing the risk of flooding around roads, buildings, and other areas.

Researchers at Drexel University’s Sustainable Water Resources Engineering Lab developed Cleanlet through a National Science Foundation-sponsored grant. The app maintains a database of inlets that are prone to becoming clogged and uses weather forecasts to notify nearby Cleanlet users when rainfall is expected. Volunteers can choose to accept cleaning requests in their area, clear the assigned inlet, and earn points based on how efficiently they complete the work.