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Soil & Water Conservation District

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What You Can Do to Cut Down On
Non-Point Source Pollution ... It's Our Turn ...

 

You couldn't live long without clean water. Nothing can. Below are just a few simple ways you can do your part to give something back to our waters. They've always been there for us ... now it's our turn.

Since all of us are NPS polluters, it'll take all of us to control the pollution. Here's what you can do around your home to help.

  1. Landscape with native plants, which require less water, fertilizer, and pesticides.

  2. Fertilize your lawn and garden according to soil test results. Contact your local extension service agent for instructions. Try to apply fertilizer when heavy rain isn't likely to wash it away.

  3. Apply pesticides according to instructions on the label.

  4. Collect litter and animal waste before they wash into storm drains.

  5. Recycle grass clippings and leaves by mulching or composting. If you can't compost, collect and dispose according to local provisions.

  6. If you change your own oil, take the used oil to a recycling station. Check with your local service stations for such facilities. Never dump oil into a storm drain.

  7. Home septic tanks should be located, constructed and installed according to regulations. Maintenance and prompt correction of problems are important.

  8. Direct roof runoff onto a grassed area. Roof drains should not be connected to a sanitary or storm sewer system.

  9. Watch for soil erosion around your home. Seed, install sold, or plant ground cover to protect the site.

  10. Use porous surfaces such as flagstone, gravel, stone, and interlocking pavers rather than concrete and asphalt.

  11. If you're concerned about the effects of runoff leaving a nearby construction site, contact the local governing body responsible for erosion and sediment control in your area. Most land disturbance is regulated under the Virginia Erosion and Sediment Control Law.

  12. Encourage awareness of non-point source pollution among your family members, friends, and co-workers.

  13. Be active! Join a civic or environmental group and let others know how you feel. Give talks, man booths, volunteer ... spread the word.