"Things You Can Do To Reduce Stormwater Runoff
Pollution"
Don't litter.
Litter adversely affects water, plants and animals.
Do not dump pollutants down a storm
drain.
Motor oil, grease, gas, paint, paint thinner and other
household chemicals are all pollutants. These chemicals
can be devastating to fish and wildlife in and around
our waterways.
Dispose of hazardous household chemicals
properly.
Many communities have hazardous waste collection
centers.
Take your car to the car wash instead of
washing it in the driveway.
Cleaning chemicals are pollutants and the car wash has
the means of properly disposing of the waste water.
Properly clean up and dispose of vehicle
fluids and household chemicals.
This especially includes any spillage or leakage that
may have occurred.
Participate in community hazardous waste
disposal days.
Many communities have several days out of the year
when citizens can bring hazardous waste to have them
disposed of properly. These include, but are not limited
to, paint, oil and household chemicals.
Use fertilizers and herbicides sparingly.
A light rainfall can cause these chemicals to runoff
your lawn or garden into a storm sewer system.
Have your septic tank pumped and inspected
regularly.
Faulty systems can leak contaminants into surface
water.
Pick up after your pets.
Pet waste contains nutrients and pathogens that can
contaminate surface water.
Recycle electronics and appliances.
Items, such as computers and refrigerators, can
contain pollutants, including lead and freon.
Direct gutter downspouts away from driveways
and bare soil areas.
This will prevent debris and sediment from washing
into storm sewers
Help prevent erosion.
Revegetate or mulch any exposed soil as soon as
possible.
Participate in community clean up days.
Help educate people in your community.
Get your community groups
involved.
