Stormwater Pollution Solutions
Humans are part of the ecological community and like it or not, our actions contribute to the health and survival of the world we live in. Some of our contributions to the environment are good, some are both good and bad, and some are just plain bad. A little tweaking here and there and a few changes in our habits can go a long way toward making our contributions better.
Humans have a lot of control over what goes into our waterways. A large percentage of the pollution in our rivers, lakes, and streams comes from stormwater runoff. Stormwater pollution is mostly a product of human activities that can easily be changed.
| Common Pollution |
Pollution Solution |
| Used grease and motor oil |
Use drip pans for vehicles and equipment waiting for maintenance. Recycle used oil and automotive fluids. |
| Antifreeze, cleaners and solvents |
Clean up spilled fluids with sand or kitty litter, then sweep it up and dispose of it properly. |
| Foam cups, plastics, cigarette butts and paper |
Reduce, reuse and recycle. If you can't do this, dispose of the item in a proper container. |
| Trimmings from trees, landscaping and lawns |
Mulch, mulch mulch! Learn to compost and leave grass clippings on the lawn. |
| Pesticides, herbicides and fertilizers |
Buy only what you need and follow application directions carefully, use only recommended amounts. |
| Sediment |
Whether from your yard or from a construction site, contain runoff, minimize disturbed or bare areas, stabilize with ground covers, protect slopes and channels. |
| Pet waste |
Pick it up and dispose of it properly. |
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