How can I Help?

By knowing the facts and being aware, you can help clean up our lakes and waterways.  Always remember, nothing but stormwater belongs in the storm drains. 

Lawn Care:

• Use pesticides and fertilizers sparingly. When use is necessary, use these chemicals in the recommended amounts.
• Use organic mulch or safer pest control methods whenever possible.
• Compost or mulch yard waste. Don’t leave it in the street or sweep it into storm drains or waterways.
• Don’t overwater your lawn. Consider using a soaker hose instead of a sprinkler.
• Cover piles of dirt or mulch being stored for landscaping projects.

House Care and Maintenance:

• Purchase biodegradable, non-toxic products.
• Use, store and dispose of products as directed on the container.
• Sweep up and properly dispose of any construction debris.
• Go to the SWA Household Hazardous Waste Program website for information on disposing of household hazardous waste items.

Vehicle Care:

• Use a commercial car wash or wash your car on a lawn or other unpaved surface.
• Check your vehicle regularly for leaks and/or spills.  Clean up and properly dispose of materials used for spill clean up.  Repair leaks as soon as possible to prevent future spills.

Pet Care:

• Always pick up after your pet…even in your own yard!

Be a Good Neighbor:

• Be on the lookout for illegal connections or anything being dumped into storm drains or water bodies.  Some common illegal discharges include:
  • Automotive fluids
  • Construction debris
  • Disinfectants
  • Detergents
  • Dirt and gravel
  • Fertilizers
  • Insecticides/Pesticides
  • Grease
  • Oil/oil filters
  • Paint
  • Pet waste
  • Solvents/degreasers
  • Trash
  • Yard waste (leaves, grass, mulch)


• Take the time to educate others on the negative impact of dumping into a stormwater system.
• Call to report dumping and discharges into stormwater systems or waterways.  Contact your local municipality or stormwater service provider, OR use the “Report an Illicit Discharge” button of the top of this page.