The following information is presented from the stormwater library of the Phase II Stormwater Management Plan which has been initiated by the Federal Government through the EPA. How You Can Prevent Storm Water Runoff Pollution
What is storm water runoff? Storm water runoff occurs when precipitation from rain or snow melt flows over the ground. Impervious surfaces like driveways, sidewalks and streets prevent storm water from naturally soaking into the ground. Storm water can pick up debris, chemicals, dirt and other pollutants and flow into a storm sewer system or directly to a lake, stream, river, wetland or coastal water. Anything that enters a storm sewer system is discharged untreated into the water bodies we use for swimming, fishing and providing drinking water.
Things You Can Do To Prevent Runoff Pollution: Use fertilizers sparingly, sweep up driveways, sidewalks and gutters Never dump anything down storm drains or in streams Vegetate bare spots in your yard Use least toxic pesticides, follow labels and learn how to prevent pest problems Take your car to the car wash instead of washing it in the driveway Check your car for leaks and recycle your motor oil Pick up after your pet
What to do with WASTE OIL Waste oil - including lubricating oil, transmission oil, transformer oil, hydraulic oil, fuel oil and heavy viscosity oil - can no longer go to landfills. If a service station or quick-change business changes your oil, they will dispose of your oil and oil filter for you. If you change your own oil, ask retailers where you buy oil if they will take your old oil. Some retailers, service stations and quick-change businesses accept oil even if you do no make a purchase. Oil filters are not prohibited from landfills if they have been well drained. To do this, turn the filter upside down and let it drain into a pan or jar for at least 24 hours. Oil drained from the filter should be collected and recycled to prevent ground-water contamination. |
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