Published on May 18, 2026
In January 2025, after seeing a story on News 13 about the City of Melbourne’s storm-drain marking program, Samuel Plummer volunteered to help place markers that say “Dump No Waste – Drains to Lagoon” on storm drains across the City of Melbourne.
The markers serve as a reminder that anything that goes into a storm drain may ultimately end up in the Indian River Lagoon. His initial efforts were recognized by News 13 a month later.
By the end of 2025, he had placed markers on 1,800 storm drains.
His volunteering did not stop there. He now regularly picks up trash and cigarette butts that collect around the perimeter of a stormwater pond near a busy roadway.
In recognition of his outstanding volunteer work, City Council recently awarded Mr. Plummer with City Council's Exceptional Citizen Award. City Council presents this award to Melbourne residents whose volunteerism, service and dedication have made a significant contribution to the City of Melbourne.
Samuel Plummer being interviewed by News 13 reporters Greg Pallone and Jon Shaban