What You Can Do
Remember any sediment, trash, debris, chemicals or other harmful substances that come in contact with rain can end up in our streams and rivers. All of us can help keep our streams clean and healthy. Here are some things you can do.


Individuals and Homeowners

•Don't blow leaves or grass into ditches or storm drains because they will end up in a stream or lake.
•Don't overuse fertilizers or pesticides.
•Maintain your septic systems properly.
•Don't pour anything you would not want to bathe in into a gutter or storm drain.
•Take used oil, paint, and antifreeze to a recycling center; Never pour these items into a storm drain.
•Keep pets away from waterside areas used by people.
•Pick up after your pets; this will prevent unhealthy bacteria from entering our streams.
•Be an example to children by properly disposing of trash and toxic materials.
•Tell a friend how he or she can help eliminate or reduce pollution.
•Report any unauthorized dumping in storm drains or near streams and rivers.


As Business Owners
•Recycle grease and oil; Do not pour them into sinks or onto parking areas or streets.
•Store materials safely and keep toxic materials in original containers.
•Make sure contaminated water and chemicals are disposed of properly; Do not dump them into storm drains.
•Keep your dumpsters clean with the lids closed, and ensure they are not leaking.
•Report any illicit discharges to the proper authorities.


As Developers
•Use low impact site design techniques.
•Implement erosion control measures to prevent runoff.
•Inspect and maintain construction sites to prevent runoff.
•Locate sites away from down sloping streets or driveway, as well as streams, lakes or drainage ways.
•Clean up daily by scraping and sweeping up soils tracked onto roadways.
•Prevent root damage of shrubbery and trees by placing barriers around plant life.
•Revegetate through mulching and seeding.



If you would like more information on what you can do to prevent stormwater pollution, please visit EPA - Stormwater Menu of Best Management Practices.




Clean Water Campaign - What Can I Do?
Clean Water Campaign is a cooperative multi-agency education and public awareness programs solutions to water quality issues. This site provides a variety of stormwater resources to the educational, residential and business community.

Stormwater Brochures and Printed Material
Clean Water Campaign brochures and fact sheets are a great resource for additional information and to share with others. Downloadable in a PDF format.



City of Winder - Illicit Discharge Brochure

            


QUESTIONS, COMMENTS AND CONCERNS

Please email stormwater@cityofwinder.com