What are those floating barriers along the Oklahoma River?

Those large barriers along the Oklahoma River serve an important purpose.

OKLAHOMA CITY (KFOR) - Those large barriers along the Oklahoma River serve an important purpose.

According to the City of OKC, the big barriers keep garbage from getting to the main waterway. That's just one of the ways Storm Water Quality and the city help the environment.

"Honestly, the river is pretty much the heart of Oklahoma City," said Michael Adams, Environmental Technician. "I mean, it's right in the middle for a reason."

Officials say the barriers collect trash and debris as it floats down the river. There are also ring nets placed on the end of drainage pipes that also collect trash after storms and storms drains with inserts that collect garbage before it gets into the water.

Adams says most of the garbage collected cannot be recycled due to contamination, or it has been broken down to the point where it is unable to be recycled.

According to the city, enough trash is collected every year to fill around 10 garbage trucks. Residents are encouraged to pick up at least one piece of trash every day, as it helps the "hidden heroes" that keep the Oklahoma River clean.