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Storm drains are a huge source of water pollution in the United States. Washing dirt and pollutants off driveways, over-fertilizing their lawns, and dumping debris directly into storm drains helps to pollute local waterways and ocean areas.
Polluted runoff from a variety of sources - roofs, streets, parking lots, and lawns - enters storm drains and is discharged untreated into local waterways.
What Individuals Can Do:
In General
* NEVER dispose of anything down a storm drain!
* Never throw trash on the street, and pick up street litter when you find it.
* Clean up after pets. Discard their wastes in trash cans.
Fertilizers and Pesticides
* Use fertilizers sparingly, if at all, and never apply fertilizers before a rainstorm.
* Instead of using pesticides, weed by hand, and create habitat to attract birds and insects that eat garden pests.
Household Hazardous Wastes
* Use less toxic alternatives, such as milk-based paints, natural cleaners, and pest repellents.
* Buy only as much paint and other chemicals as you need, and be careful not to spill them on the ground.
* Do not discard hazardous wastes, including paint, with the regular trash. Contact your local solid waste authority for approved hazardous waste disposal locations.
Automotive Wastes and Pollutants
* Keep your car properly maintained so that it doesn't leak oil or other toxic fluids.
* Clean up spilled antifreeze, brake fluid, oil, and grease with absorbent materials. Do not hose them into the street or driveway.
* Put used oil and antifreeze in separate containers- never mix oil and antifreeze-and take them to a local service station to be recycled.
* Wash your car on the grass, which can help to filter out pollutants before they reach local streams.
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