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Runoff from urban areas, also known as stormwater, is one of the biggest threats to water quality in our local rivers and streams. During rainy weather, pollutants get washed into storm drains, which lead directly to our local waterways. There are lots of ways that we can prevent stormwater pollution. Small actions can really make a big difference.
Automotive Fluids
Many auto fluids are toxic to human health and to the environment. By working with auto fluids properly, you can prevent these chemicals from getting into our waterways.
- Motor oil and oil filters can be recycled at the Lane County Waste Management Transfer Station in Glenwood for free. Any type of motor oil, including transmission and hydraulic fluids, are accepted. Antifreeze can also be recycled for free. Collect all fluids in labeled, sealed containers. Do not mix fluids.
- Gasoline, solvents, and de-greasers are accepted at the County Household Hazardous Waste site for free; call for an appointment (541) 682-4120.
- Always fix leaking vehicles as soon as possible. A short-term solution is to put a drip pan with absorbent materials under your vehicle when it is parked.
Car Washing
Car wash water can carry soaps, oil, and other chemicals into the stormwater system.
- By washing your car on a lawn, gravel area, or by directing wash water to a landscaped area you can prevent polluted water from entering the stormwater system.
- Use biodegradable and phosphate-free soaps; use all soaps sparingly or not at all.
- Avoid using metal brighteners, solvents, or chemical degreasers.
- Visit a "Fish Friendly" car wash fundraiser.
Check out the video that Ms. LaMar's 4th grade class from Riverbend Elementary made on car washing!
http://www.youtube.com/geoliteva#p/a/u/3/IODO-lg8zeY
Pet Waste
Clean up after your pets. Pet waste contains bacteria and parasitic organisms that, when washed into local waterways, can contaminate streams and rivers.
- Bag your pet's poo and throw it in the trash.
- Flush the waste down the toilet where it can be treated at the wastewater treatment facility. Be sure not to flush any baggies or kitty litter!
Check out the videos that Ms. LaMar's 4th grade class from Riverbend Elementary made on pet waste!
http://www.youtube.com/user/geoliteva#p/a/u/4/9Xx67Cnq97o
http://www.youtube.com/geoliteva#p/a/u/2/8K65hwnp5Cw
Pressure Washing
Pressure washing has become a popular method for cleaning surfaces, but can release contaminants into the stormwater system.
- Never use soaps, detergents, chemicals, steam, or heated water while pressure washing if runoff might enter the stormwater system.
- Before pressure washing, clean up leaks and spills with kitty litter or other absorbent material. The, sweep up, bag, and dispose of in the garbage.
- Block the gutter or storm drain with an oil-absorbant sock or boom (these are inexpensive and can be purchased at local safety/environmental stores). A rolled up rag can prevent sediment and debris from entering the storm system. bag and dispose of in the trash afterward.
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