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Stains, spills, and leaks of vehicle fluids are easily carried from your driveway by a rainstorm. An oily sheen on runoff from your driveway is a sure sign that you need to be more careful. Routine maintenance can prevent your car from leaking and help identify potential problems. Always collect waste vehicle fluids for recycling. Never dump used oil, antifreeze or gasoline down a storm drain, in a ditch, or on the ground. These wastes will end up in a nearby lake, stream, or in your drinking water. |
Washing your car in the driveway or street creates runoff without a rainstorm. The dirty, soapy runoff drains directly into storm sewers, picking up oil and other pollutants as it goes. Try washing your car on the lawn or, better yet, take it to a car wash. Send that dirty water to a wastewater treatment plant not a nearby lake or stream. |
Storm water is unavoidable, but its effects can be reduced by keeping harmful chemicals and materials out of runoff. |
Animal waste is a source of disease and contains nutrients that can promote the growth of algae in streams and lakes. The risk of contamination increases if pet wastes are allowed to accumulate or if they are left on sidewalks, streets or driveways where runoff can carry them to storm sewers. Droppings should be flushed down the toilet. Or, if local laws allow it, buried or wrapped and put in the garbage for disposal. |
Although leaves and other plant debris accumulate naturally in streams and lakes, homeowners can contribute excess amounts of plant matter, especially in areas with many homes. This can lead to water that is unattractive or green with algae and unsuitable for recreation. Avoiding the problem is easy — sweep clippings back onto the grass, and compost leaves and garden wastes on your property to recycle nutrients. |