Water running over the land and into our storm drains, retention ponds, streams & lakes carries all the contaminants in its path. Here are a few tips to help keep our stormwater clean:

 

Keep Run-off & Stormwater Clean

	Redirect downspouts to drain rainwater onto lawns & gardens. One way to do this is to plant a rain garden.
	Control erosion at construction & landscape sites to prevent dirt & debris from entering storm drains.
	Clear storm drains near your home of all trash debris, including leaves, so they can properly drain water.
	Mark storm drains with “Nothing but Rain Down the Drain” message.
	Report spills & water quality violations.

Lawn, Garden & Landscaping Activities

	Practice natural yard care to reduce the use of hazardous chemicals while saving time, water, and money and helping to protect your family’s health and the environment.
	Landscape with drought-tolerant plants that are resistant to pests & diseases. Nurseries can help you in making choices.
	Build healthy soils with compost, mulch, & organic fertilizers.
	Hand-pull weeds & think twice before using chemical herbicides, like weed & feed. If you decide to use a weed killer, wear gloves, spot spray just the weed, and spray when it isn't windy or when rain isn't predicted. Never use pesticides, fertilizers, or herbicides near streams, lakes, or wetlands.
	Cut your grass higher & leave the clippings – free fertilizer!
	Use a broom or blower, rather than a water hose, to clean up dirt & yard debris. Put debris in yard waste or compost container.

 
Proper Disposal of Household Hazardous Waste

	Use less-toxic cleaners & use only what you need.
	Properly store all toxic products including cleaners, solvents & paints. Share leftovers with neighbors.
	Dispose of leftover hazardous household products properly at the Factoria Transfer Station or Hazardous Wastemobile.
	Clean up spills with absorbent material (kitty litter, rags, sand). Then sweep up the material & dispose of it in the trash.
	Clean up water-based paint in the sink, not in the gutter. Filter & reuse paint thinner & brush cleaner.

Animal Waste Management

	Scoop the poop! Clean up after your pet when out walking or in your yard.
	Bag your pet’s waste & dispose of it in the trash.
	Do not feed waterfowl.
	Plant stream edges to discourage waterfowl from gathering on them.

Vehicle Maintenance

	Wash your car at a commercial car wash that filters the wastewater or wash your car on a grassy or graveled area.
	Keep your vehicle’s engine tuned up & check for leaks.
	Recycle used oil & antifreeze at an auto parts store or service station.
	Do not overfill your gas tank.
	Use public transportation, carpool, bike, or walk whenever possible.

Trash Management

	Recycle reusable materials.
	Keep litter out of storm drains.
	Keep trash container lids shut to prevent foraging by animals.

Community Action

	Participate in community clean-ups.
	Get involved in local volunteer stream protection projects.