As a part of the Rock River Basin, the water that flows from your yard, car or street affects the entire interconnected community. Most of the pollution in our rivers, streams and lakes comes from runoff from yards, streets and fields, not from large industrial factories or plants. Small amounts of pollutants and chemicals can add up to big problems for local waters.
There are many simple actions you can take to keep water out of storm drains and keep water that does flow to the rivers clean. Take one of these simple actions in your yard, around your home or in your community.
These small improvements and tips can keep your home—and stormdrains—pollution free.
Car Care – Boats are not the only vehicles that affect water!
Anti-freeze, oil and other drips from your car get flushed into stormdrains that flow directly to our rivers and streams. Take care that car fluids and soapy water from car washes stay out of stormdrains.
Animal Waste – Don’t let Fido spoil your river
When pet waste is washed into storm drains, it goes directly into our waterways without getting treated. If not disposed of properly, pet waste can present significant health risk and water pollution. Dispose of pet waste by flushing it down the toilet or burying it in the yard.
Downspouts – Don’t waste the water that comes off your roof
Prevent water from running off your property by disconnecting your downspout from the sewer system. Instead, direct the water from your roof to your yard and flower bed or capture it in a rain barrel. Conserve water by using this rainwater to water your lawn and flowers. In fact, rainwater is better than well water for flowering plants.
Road Salt and Deicers – Maintain safe roads and sidewalks with water-safe alternatives
Road salt and deicers not only damage shoes, roads and infrastructure, but they also harm plants, seep into groundwater and degrade river water quality as snow melt washes them into stormdrains. Use water-friendly alternatives like salt-free de-icers or sandbox sand and always use as little as possible.
Hazardous Household Chemicals – Hazardous to people and rivers
If you cannot use up or give away household cleaners, follow proper disposal procedures as listed on product packages. Never use storm drains to dispose of household hazardous wastes like motor oil, paints or pesticides.
Photo by John Hart, Watertown Daily Times