Reduce Stormwater Runoff
Keeping rain and sprinkler water on our yards—and out of storm drains—reduces pollution of our creeks and lakes. Because water washes off our yards, it is important to reduce the amount of pollutants on our property. Ways to reduce pollutants found in stormwater runoff:
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Be considerate of others and pick up after pets. Properly dispose of waste in the trash. Help reduce bacteria and nutrient pollution entering storm drain systems, ditches and local waterways.
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Sweep fertilizer off concrete back into landscape.
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Wash car on the lawn to allow soap and dirt to soak into the ground.
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Check car for leaks. Use litter to absorb drips and dispose of in the trash.
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When using chemicals, always read the label before mixing, applying and disposing. Use only what you need.
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Create an at-home kit for chemical spills and leaks.
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If you can slow water runoff down, spread it out and allow it to sink into the ground, you can reduce these pollutants from reaching our streams.
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Disconnect and direct downspouts to drain onto a well drained area in the lawn or plant beds where rain will soak into the soil rather than run off the yard.
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Collect rain runoff from your roof in a rain barrel or cistern.
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Create swales (low areas), terraces or rain gardens to catch, hold, and filter stormwater.
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Use mulch, permeable pavers, flagstone, gravel, or other porous surfaces for walkways, patios and drives. Concrete and asphalt increase your impervious footprint, whereas pervious pavers allow for infiltration.
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Create a vegetated area along stream banks to prevent erosion.
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Take a tour of local practices that have been installed to treat pollutants and reduce stormwater runoff.
