What You Can Do To Protect River and Aquifer Water Quality

Storm Drains

  • Never dump anything into storm drains, dry wells or drainage swales.
  • Report materials being dumped into storm drains.
  • Keep trash out of storm drains.
  • Never allow roof gutters to drain directly into the street or storm drains.
  • Avoid spilling fertilizers and pesticides in areas that can wash into storm drains.

Household Waste

  • For free, dispose household hazardous waste (paints, solvents, used oil, antifreeze, batteries, pesticides and fluorescent bulbs) at a regional solid waste disposal site.
  • Never flush prescription or over the counter medications down toilets or drains.
  • Use water-based rather than oil-based paints.
  • Recycle used oil and antifreeze at a regional solid waste disposal site. Oil can also be recycled at approved drop sites, such as automotive shops.

Lawn and Garden

  • Follow product directions, do not over apply.
  • Don’t over water, it can allow fertilizers to reach ground water or storm drains.
  • Use slow-release, environmentally friendly fertilizers.
  • Consider using natural pest control, such as lady bugs.
  • Plant ground cover to reduce erosion.
  • Scoop pet waste and put into your garbage.