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What Is a Rain Garden? RAIN GARDENS FOR Rain gardens are beautiful natural landscape features that require less maintenance and fewer chemicals than lawns. Rain gardens capture runoff from impervious areas such as roofs and driveways and allow it to seep slowly into the ground. Most importantly, rain gardens help preserve nearby streams and lakes by reducing the amount of runoff HOME LANDSCAPES and filtering pollutants.

Why Plant a Rain Garden?

Rain gardens provide for the natural infiltration of rainwater into the soil. This helps to filter out pollutants including fertilizer, pesticides, oil, heavy metals and other chemicals that are carried with the rainwater that washes off your lawn, rooftop and driveway. Rain gardens also reduce peak storm flows, helping to prevent stream bank erosion and lowering the risk for local flooding. By collecting and using rainwater that would other- wise run off your yard, rain gardens allow you to have an attractive landscape with less watering.

How Do Rain Gardens Work?

A rain garden receives runoff water from roofs or other impervious (hard) surfaces such as driveways. The rain garden holds the water on the landscape so that it can be taken in by plants and soak into the ground instead of flowing into a street and down a storm drain or drainage ditch. The plants, mulch and soil in a rain garden combine natural physical, biological and chemical processes to remove pollutants from runoff. Many pollutants will be filtered out and break down in the soil over time.

Water should stand in a rain garden no longer than 24 hours after the rain stops. Mosquitoes cannot complete their breeding cycle in this length of time, so a rain garden should not increase mosquito populations.

40 Courtland Street, NE Special thanks to Rose Mary Seymour, Ph. D., P.E. of the University of Georgia, College of Agricultural and Environmental Science, Biological and Agricultural Engineering, Griffin Campus, Atlanta, Georgia 30303 UW-Extension Office, the Pollution Prevention Assistance Division (P2AD), Alfred Vick, ECOs Environmental Designs and Maplewood, Minnesota (for photos). WWW.CLEANWATERCAMPAIGN.COM fold - fold -

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Where Are The Best Places to Locate Rain Gardens? What Plants Should You Use? A rain garden should be curvy in shape and is best situated with the longest length perpendi- cular to the slope of the land. Rain gardens are best located in nat- Use rope to lay out the boundary of the rain garden. Finding plants for your rain garden is not diffi- ural depressions (low lying areas where cult. Many well-suited plants are available at your 3. Once the rain garden is laid out, you can start digging. water flows naturally). They should nearest landscaping supply store. Here are some be sited at least 10 feet from a house Begin by removing soil in the rain garden so suggested plants (common and scientific names): or building. While they should not be that the deepest part is about 8 -10 inches next to building foundations, rain deep. Trees gardens near impervious surfaces such The bottom of the rain garden should be as Trees are effective in rain gardens that are larger than as driveways, patios and sidewalks level as possible so some minor grading 150 square feet. Plant trees at least eight feet apart. may be necessary. help capture the runoff from these areas. Bald Cypress Taxodium distichum The extra soil removed from the rain garden Black Gum Nyssa sylvatica Sites with steep slopes (an elevation should be used on the downhill side of the Crape Myrtle Lagerstroemia indica change of more than 12 feet down garden to create a berm, an earthen dam or Fringetree Chionanthus virginicus per 100 feet in length) may not be barrier that will keep the water in the rain Green Ash Fraxinus pennsylvanica suitable for rain gardens. Further, if you have a septic system, avoid planting a rain garden garden. The top of the berm should not be Musclewood/American Hornbeam Carpinus caroliniana higher than the uphill edge of the rain garden Red Maple Acer rubrum over the top of the drainfield. It is recommended that a landscape professional be con- (no more than 12 inches high). The rain River Birch Betula nigra sulted if you plan to build a rain garden larger than 300 square feet. garden should be designed to hold no more Sweetbay Magnolia Magnolia virginiana than 6 inches of water above the ground surface. Willow Oak Quercus phellos 4. Mix organic matter into the soil within the rain garden by spreading 2 to 4 inches Witch Hazel Hamamelis virginiana Where Are Rain Gardens Not Beneficial? of compost over the area and mixing the organic matter in with the existing soil. Shrubs If the soil is acidic (has a low pH), add lime to neutralize the pH of the soil. Contact a local American Beautyberry Callicarpa americana University of Georgia Cooperative Extension Service office for a soil sampling test by calling Bottlebrush Buckeye Aesculus parviflora Rain gardens are not appropriate where the seasonal high water table is 770-228-7274 or go online to www.ces.uga.edu. Buttonbush Cephalanthus occidentalis within 24 inches of the soil surface because the water table will prevent For soils with high clay content, it may be beneficial to remove about 1-2 feet of the soil Common Winterberry/Winterberry Holly Ilex verticillata infiltration. and replace it with a more porous “rain garden soil.” A soil mix suitable for rain gardens is Inkberry Ilex glabra Oakleaf Hydrangea Hydrangea quercifolia Rain gardens should not be placed over a septic system. 50-60 percent sand, 20-30 percent topsoil, and 20-30 percent compost. The clay content in the rain garden soil replacement mix should be no more than 10 percent. Rose of Sharon Hibiscus syriacus Rain gardens should not be located next to building foundations. Summersweet Clethra Clethra alnifolia 5. A shallow swale or corrugated drain pipe should be set up to carry the water from the Virginia Sweetspire Itea virginica roof downspout to the rain garden. Wax Myrtle Myrica cerifera How To Create a Rain Garden Make sure that the ground slopes away from the house so that water does not collect around the foundation. Perennials, Grasses and Groundcovers Asters Aster spp. 6. Establish a grass or groundcover border along Blackeyed Susan Rudbeckia hirta 1. Locate a site for a rain garden in a natural the upper edge of the rain garden to slow Blue Lobelia Lobelia siphilitica depression in the landscape. down the runoff water as it enters the rain Broadleaf Uniola/Indian Woodoats Chasmanthium latifolium garden, and do the same over the berm to Broomsedge Andropogon virginicus 2. Determine the size and shape of the stabilize it as a border of the rain garden. Cardinal Flower Lobelia cardinalis Cinnamon Fern Osmunda cinnamomea rain garden. 7. Select and plant drought tolerant, wet toler- Clubed Begonia Begonia cucullata To calculate the size, consider the area ant and hardy plants. A mix of ornamental Golden Ragwort Packera aurea Goldenrod Solidago flexicaulis draining to a rain garden, including the grasses, shrubs and self-seeding perennials roof area or impervious area that drains Ironweed Vernonia noveboracensis to the downspout and the area of land are good choices. See chart of plants. Joe-Pye Weed Eupatorium fistulosum between the downspout and the rain Liatris Liatris pycnostachya garden. The larger the roof or impervious 8. Once plants are in place, cover the garden Narrowleaf Dragonhead Physotegia angustifolia (hard) area and the slower that water infil- with a 3” layer of mulch. Lighter mulches such as pine bark and straw will float in New England Aster Aster novae-angliae trates into the soil, the more area of rain garden needed. water and may be washed away to the edges of the rain garden. Better mulch choices Red Columbine Aquilegia canadensis Royal Fern Osmunda regalis An effective rain garden depends on water infiltrating into the soil of the garden. Soils with for a rain garden are more dense materials such as pine straw, wood chips or shred- a lot of clay will infiltrate water very slowly, so the size of a rain garden in clay soils should ded wood. St. John’s Wort Hypericum fasciculatum be 60 percent of the total drainage area. Sandy soils infiltrate water more quickly, so a rain Scarlet Rosemallow/Swamp Hibiscus Hibiscus coccineus garden in a sandy location does not need to be as large. For sandy soils, the rain garden 9. To maintain your rain garden, remove weeds on a regular basis as the landscape plants Swamp Milkweed Asclepias incarnata size should be about 20 percent of the area draining to it. Loamy soils can be sized some- grow, and replenish mulch as needed. Swamp Sunflower Helianthus angustifolius where between 20 and 60 percent, keeping in mind that the slower the infiltration, the larger Switchgrass Panicum virgatum the area should be. It is important to know your soil before you start a rain garden project. As the plants in the rain garden mature, there will be less need for mulch and weeding. Wild Ginger Asarum canadense To test the infiltration of your soil, dig a hole 6-8 in deep in the area that the rain garden Yellow Stargrass Hypoxis spp. Rain gardens should be relatively low maintenance if the correct plants are chosen. will be located. Fill the hole with water. Observe how long it takes for the water to move (infiltrate) into the soil. If any water stays in the hole for 12 hours or longer, then the soil is For help in finding a location to purchase native plants, go to the Georgia Native Plant not suitable for a rain garden. 10.IMPORTANT NOTE: Plan on providing an “overflow” path for water to take if the Society’s website at www.gnps.org. If you determine that your rain garden area needs to be greater than 300 square feet and you rain garden fills and more rain comes. This path should be stabilized with a hardy wish to plan the site without outside assistance, divide the drainage area between two or grass or groundcover. An additional list of plants suitable for rain gardens can be obtained through the University of Georgia Cooperative Extension more rain gardens, and build each so you can easily manage them both. Service. The bulletin, called “A Compilation of Low-Maintenance Plants for Georgia Landscapes” (H-91-009), lists both native and non-native plants that are drought and moisture tolerant. The bulletin can be found at a local extension office or online at www.ces.uga.edu. fold - fold -

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What is stormwater runoff? Polluted stormwater runoff can have many adverse effects on plants, fish, Stormwater runoff occurs when precipitation animals, and people. from rain or snowmelt flows over the ground. · Sediment can cloud the water Impervious surfaces like driveways, sidewalks, and make it difficult or and streets prevent stormwater from impossible for aquatic plants to naturally soaking into the ground. grow. Sediment also can destroy aquatic habitats. · Excess nutrients can cause algae blooms. When algae die, they sink to the bottom and decompose in a process that removes oxygen from Why is stormwater runoff the water. Fish and other aquatic organisms can’t exist in water with low a problem? dissolved oxygen levels. · Bacteria and other pathogens can wash into swimming areas and create health hazards, often making beach closures necessary. · Debris—plastic bags, six-pack rings, bottles, and cigarette butts—washed into waterbodies can choke, suffocate, or disable aquatic life like ducks, fish, turtles, and birds. · Household hazardous wastes like insecticides, pesticides, paint, solvents, used motor oil, and other auto fluids can poison aquatic life. Land animals and people can become sick or die from eating diseased fish and shellfish or ingesting polluted water. · Polluted stormwater often Stormwater can pick up debris, chemicals, dirt, and other affects drinking water pollutants and flow into a storm sewer system or directly to sources. This, in turn, can a lake, stream, river, wetland, or coastal water. Anything that affect human health and enters a storm sewer system is discharged untreated into increase drinking water the waterbodies we use for swimming, fishing, and providing treatment costs. drinking water.

Why GreenScape? Our yards are our outdoor homes: fun, beautiful, great spaces for relaxing. By taking care of our lawns and gardens properly, we can save money, time and help the environment. GreenScaping encompasses a set of landscaping practices that can improve the health and appearance of your lawn and garden while protecting and preserving natural resources. By simply changing your landscape to a Green- Scape, you can save time and money and protect the environment. Save time by landscaping with plants that require less care Save money by eliminating unnecessary water and chemical use Protect the environment by: Conserving water supplies. Using chemicals properly and only when necessary to keep waterways and drinking water clean. Reducing yard waste by recycling yard trimmings into free fertilizer. Put nature to work in your yard In nature, soil recycles dead plants into nutrients for new plant growth. Plants are adapted to the water, sun and soil available in their site. Maintaining a wide variety of healthy plants, soil organisms, beneficial insects and animals can keep most pests and diseases in check. By working with nature, you can have a great-looking yard that’s easier to care for, cheaper to maintain and healthier for families, pets, wildlife and the environment. How? Start with these five easy steps: 1 Build and maintain healthy soil 2 Plant right for your site 3 Practice smart watering Ad opt a holistic approach 4 to pest management 5 Practice natural lawn care Build and maintain healthy soil with 1 compost and mulch A teaspoonful of healthy soil contains about 4 billion organisms! This community of beneficial soil creatures keeps our landscapes healthy by: Creating a loose soil structure that allows air, water and plant root growth into the soil. Recycling nutrients and making them available to plants. Storing water until plants need it. Protecting plants from some pests and diseases. Know what your soil needs. A soil test will tell you how much nitrogen, phos- phorus, potassium and lime your soil needs to grow healthy plants. Depending on the condition of the soil, you may not even need to apply these nutrients! Contact your local Cooperative Extension office or garden supply center for a soil test kit. Feed your soil with compost. Dig or rototill one to three inches of compost into 6 to 12 inches of top soil when you’re making new beds or planting lawns. Top dress existing lawns with a quarter- to half-inch of compost every spring or fall. Compost helps sandy soils hold nutri- ents and water, loosens clay soils and feeds the ben- eficial soil life so it can feed and protect your plants. Make compost at home, or buy it in bags or bulk. Yard and food waste are a gardener’s gold! Leaves, chopped stalks, flowers and grass all make great compost in a pile or bin. Vegetable scraps and coffee grounds can also be added to your bin, but do not use meat, dairy or oils because they can attract pests. You should turn your compost every few weeks with a pitchfork to distribute air and moisture. Make sure to sprinkle water on your pile in dry weather. In most climates, you will have finished compost in three to six months, when the waste becomes a dark, crumbly material that is uniform in texture. Mulch it! Mulch is a layer of organic material like leaves, aged wood chips, compost or grass clippings that you spread in spring or fall around your plants. Never exceed more than three inches of mulch in your landscaping beds, and keep mulch about an inch away from stems and tree trunks. Mulch stabilizes soil temperature, prevents weeds, feeds the soil for healthier plants and helps to conserve water. And it recycles itself! Mulch improves: Flower beds and vegetable gardens Use one to three inches of shredded leaves, compost or grass clippings that have not been treated with pesticides. Trees, shrubs and woody perennials Use two to three inches of woody mulches, like shredded tree bark or aged wood chips. Shredded fall leaves also work well. Be sure to keep mulches an inch away from plant stems or trunks to prevent rot. Lawns Mulch your lawn? Yes, you can “grasscycle” (leave the clippings on the lawn when mowing). The clippings quickly decompose and release valuable nutrients back into the soil to feed the grass, reducing the need for nitrogen by 25 to 50 percent. Need fertilizer? Go slow! Most trees and shrubs get all the nutrients they need from the soil. But annual plants, vegetable gardens and lawns some- times need additional nutrients from a fertilizer. When shopping for fertilizer, look for a product that contains “natural organic” or “slow-release” ingredients. Unlike “quick-release” fertilizers, “natural organic” or “slow-release” fertilizers feed your plants slowly and evenly. The result? Healthier plants with strong root systems and no exces- sive “top growth” — saving you time and money. Improper use of fertilizers can damage beneficial soil life essential for healthy soils and plants. 2 Plant right for your site Get to know your yard and decide how you want to use it. Where is it sunny or shady? What is the pH of your soil? What type of soil (e.g., sandy, clay) do you have in your yard? Look around — are there plants with problems? Where do you want play areas, vegeta- bles, color, views or privacy? How much lawn do you need or want to maintain? Choose the right plant for the right place. Select plants that grow well in your area of the country and fit the amount of sun, type of soil and water available in your yard. In general, it makes sense to use low-water plants to save yourself the time and expense of watering.

pH is a measure of soil acidity or alkalinity and directly affects the availability of nutrients for your plants. Think about how big a tree or shrub will be when mature (especially next to your house or driveway and near power lines). Pick plants that resist pests. Many garden centers and nurseries offer informa- tion about pest- and disease-resistant plant variet- ies. After they’re established, they’ll save you time and money on pest control. Give plants a good start. Prepare the soil by mixing one to three inches of compost into soil in planting beds. For trees and shrubs, mix compost into the whole planting bed, or just plant in existing soil and mulch thoroughly. Set plants at the correct soil level, following in- structions provided with your plant. Mulch new plantings and be sure to water even drought-toler- ant plants during their first few years especially in the summer and fall, until they build deep roots.

Make space for wildlife. You can invite birds, butterflies and other wildlife into your yard, protect streams and fish, and make a more attractive landscape. Consider planting native trees and plants, especially ones with berries, fruit and flowers. Plant in layers (ground cover, shrubs and trees) so your landscape is like the forest. Don’t plant invasive species — check with your local Cooperative Extension office for a list of invasive “noxious weeds.” Minimize potential harm to birds, beneficial insects and fish by using pesticides only when necessary and using them properly. Read the label and follow instructions carefully whenever you use a pesticide. Provide a bird bath or other small water source. Make sure you change the water every couple of days so your bird bath doesn’t become a mosquito breeding ground. Leave wild “buffer” areas of native plants along ravines, streams, shorelines and fencelines. Practice smart watering 3 for healthier plants Too much of a good thing. Did you know that watering too much or too little is the cause of many common plant problems? You can have healthier plants, save money on water bills and conserve precious water resources by learning to give your lawn and garden just what they need, and no more. Water deeply, but infrequently. Most plants do best if the soil is allowed to partially dry out between waterings. A loss of shine or foot- prints remaining after you walk across the lawn indicates that it’s time to water. Vegetables and other annuals should be watered at the first sign of wilting, but tougher perennials (plants that live several years) need water only if they stay droopy after it cools off in the evening. Trees and shrubs usually don’t need any watering once their roots are fully established (two to five years), except in very dry years. Make every drop count. Some easy ways to lower water bills and get more water to plants include: Build your soil with compost and mulch to hold water and reduce evaporation. Choose low-water-use plants. Once established, they can often thrive just on rainfall. Use soaker hoses or drip irrigation on beds — they can save 50 percent or more compared with sprinklers. Use an outdoor water timer (available at garden stores) to water just the right amount, frequency and time of day. Water lawns separately from other plantings. Make sure sprinklers aren’t watering the pavement. When soil is dry or compacted, it won’t absorb water quickly. If water puddles, stop watering a while and then restart so the water has time to soak in. Water in the early morning — if you water at mid-day, much of the water just evaporates. Evening watering should be avoided because it can encourage the growth of mold or plant diseases. In a dry spell, you can allow an established lawn to go dormant. Water just once a month and brown areas of the lawn will bounce back in the fall.

Let the rain soak in. Rain rushes off roofs, pavement and compacted soil. This causes flooding downstream, erodes stream banks and muddies the water, which harms fish and other wildlife. You can help slow this run-off and help the soil hold the moisture plants need in the summer. Direct downspouts out into lawns, rain gardens or “rain barrels.” Use compost and mulch to reduce erosion and help rain soak in. Use open pavers, gravel or other pavement options that let rain seep into the soil. Plant dense strips of native trees, shrubs and groundcovers next to streams, lakes and ditches to stabilize the soil and to slow and filter run-off. Adopt a holistic approach 4 to Pest Management Pesticides (including weed and bug killers) can be effective tools for controlling pests such as insects, weeds and diseases. Be sure you need a pesticide before you use it. On-going pest problems are often a sign that your lawn or garden is not getting what it needs to stay healthy. You need to correct the underlying problem to reduce the chance of pests re- appearing. Remember, a holistic — or integrated pest management — approach is the most effective way to manage pests. Here’s how: Start with prevention. Maintain healthy soil with compost and mulch. Select pest-resistant plants and put them in the sun/shade and soil conditions they like. Use a variety of plants so, if pests attack, your whole garden isn’t at risk. Mow higher. Most grasses should be mowed to a height of two to three inches. Taller grass has more leaf surface and deeper roots and eventually chokes out many weeds. Clean out diseased plants so disease doesn’t spread. Pull weeds before they go to seed and spread. Remove dead plants to reduce hiding places for insect pests. Identify the problem before you spray, squash or stomp. Whether it’s a bug, disease or weed, you need to identify it to know how to effectively manage it. The cause of ailing plants or grass may not be pests or disease but incorrect mowing or pruning, im- proper watering or other easily corrected practices. That scary bug could actually be a beneficial “good bug” that eats problem pests. Accept a little damage — give nature time to work. Accept a few pests, as long as they are not harmful to the long-term effects of the landscape. Natural predators often bring pests under control, but they need time to work. Monitor your landscape to spot signs of pests but don’t spray at the first sign of damage — nature may control it for you or plants may outgrow the damage. If a pest or weed problem develops, use an integrated approach to solve the problem. Physical controls like traps, barriers, fabric row covers or plants that repel pests can work for some pests. Use a little “elbow grease.” Long-handled weed pullers pop dandelions and other weeds out easily. Mulching, not to exceed three inches, reduces weeds in garden beds. Use “crop rotation” techniques by changing the planting location for annuals to minimize their susceptibility to pests and disease. Replace problem plants with pest- resistant ones for a healthier, care- free yard. If a plant, even a tree, has insect, pest or disease problems every year, consider replacing it with a more tolerant or resistant variety or another type of plant that doesn’t have these problems. Use pesticides responsibly. Carefully read and follow pesticide product label instructions. Avoid overuse of pesticides. When you have a small problem area, treat just that area, not the entire yard.

Most bugs are good bugs. Only about 5– 15 percent of the bugs in your yard are pests. “Good bugs,” like the ladybug (left) and the praying mantis (right), help control pests. Text overflow on separate page 5 Practice Natural Lawn Care It’s easy to save time and money by putting these steps to work for a beautiful yard.

Mow higher, mow regularly and leave the clippings. Mow more frequently when grass is actively growing so that you are only cutting no more than one-third of the height of the grass. This practice minimizes the amount of grass clippings. The desired height of grass varies depending on climate. Contact your local Cooperative Extension office for local recommendations. “Grasscycling,” or leaving the clippings on the lawn, doesn’t cause thatch build up — but it does make lawns healthier. Soil organisms recycle the clippings into free fertilizer, and you save all the work of bagging. Modern mulching lawn mowers make “grasscycling” even easier, and homeowners can reduce their mowing time by 30 to 40 percent by not having to bag clippings. Use “natural organic” or “slow-release” fertilizers. Choose “natural organic” or “slow-release” fertilizers to reduce nutrient run-off and leaching. To avoid run-off, keep fertilizers on the soil and away from sidewalks, streets and driveways. Fertilizers that run off are a waste of money and contribute to pollution of streams and lakes. Read and follow product labels carefully before using fertilizer and

How much is one inch of water a week? Scatter clean, empty tuna cans or other straight-sided containers on your lawn; turn on the sprinklers and check the time. When most cans have one inch of water in them, turn off the sprinkler and check how long it ran. Now you know how long to run your sprinkler each week in summer if you want to keep your lawn green. Honey, I shrunk the lawn! Grass grows best on level, well- drained soil in full sun or part shade. Consider alternatives to grass on steep slopes, shady areas or near streams and lakes. In these areas, it takes a lot of extra work (and sometimes chemicals) to maintain grass. Look for other plants, such as ground covers, better suited to soggy soil, slopes or heavy shade. Leave or plant a “buffer” of dense native vegetation along streams and lakes to filter and slow run-off, shade and cool the water, provide homes for wildlife and prevent bank erosion. other lawn chemicals. Use fertilizers sparingly. The more you fertilize, the faster the grass grows and the more frequently you have to mow! Water deeply, but infrequently, to moisten the whole root zone. Let the soil dry between waterings to prevent lawn disease and save water. Lawns need only about one inch of water a week in summer, including rain, to stay green. Or you can let areas of lawn that don’t get heavy wear go brown and dormant — just water once a month and they’ll bounce back in the fall. Overseeding can improve the quality of your lawn. Core aerate in the fall to improve root development and water penetration. Follow by overseeding thin areas of lawn with grass seed blends recommended for your area. Then “top-dress” by raking in ¼ to ½ inch of compost to cover the seed and improve the soil. Repeat these steps annually as needed to improve poor lawns.

Lawn care practices are often targeted by watershed managers as significant contributors of pesticides and nutrients to run-off. In fact, surveys show higher concentrations of some pesticides, particularly insecticides, in urban streams than in agricultural streams. Remember to work with nature in your yard by starting with these five easy steps : 1 Build and maintain healthy soil 2 Plant right for your site 3 Practice smart watering Ad opt a holistic approach 4 to pest management 5 Practice natural lawn care By following these steps, you can save time, money and make your piece of the planet a healthier place to live. Check with local authorities to find out more about specific re- quirements concerning watering, using pesticides and fertilizers, composting and other practices recommended in this brochure. Remember the Four R’s:

Reduce Reuse Recycle Rebuy For more information on these and other GreenScaping techniques and resources, please visit our Web site at www.epa.gov/GreenScapes GreenScapes is a component of EPA’s Resource Conservation Challenge, designed to promote environmentally beneficial landscape practices across the nation. By adopting the practices outlined in this booklet, consumers can learn how to “GreenScape” their yards and, in doing so, help to preserve natural resources and prevent waste and pollution.

A special thanks to City of Seattle Public Utilities and King County, Washington, Solid Waste Division for providing content information.

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Reference to any specific commercial products, processes, companies or services by trade name, trademark, manufacturer or otherwise, does not constitute or imply endorsement or June 2006 recommendation by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. EPA 530-K-06-002 Stormwater Pollution Solutions Auto care Washing your car and degreasing auto parts at home Education is essential to changing people's behavior. can send detergents and other Signs and markers near storm drains warn residents contaminants through the storm sewer system. Dumping that pollutants entering the drains will be carried automotive fluids into storm untreated into a local waterbody. Recycle or properly dispose of household products that drains has the same result as contain chemicals, such as insecticides, pesticides, paint, dumping the materials directly into a waterbody. solvents, and used motor oil and other auto fluids. · Use a commercial car wash that treats or Residential landscaping Don’t pour them onto the ground or into storm drains. recycles its wastewater, or wash your car on Permeable Pavement—Traditional concrete and your yard so the water infiltrates into the asphalt don’t allow water to soak into the ground. ground. Instead these surfaces rely on storm drains to Lawn care · Repair leaks and dispose of used auto fluids divert unwanted water. Permeable pavement and batteries at designated drop-off or systems allow rain and snowmelt to soak through, Excess fertilizers decreasing stormwater runoff. and pesticides recycling locations. applied to lawns Rain Barrels—You can and gardens wash collect rainwater from off and pollute Septic Pet waste rooftops in mosquito- streams. In systems proof containers. The addition, yard Pet waste can be water can be used later on clippings and Leaking and a major source of lawn or garden areas. leaves can wash poorly bacteria and excess nutrients into storm drains and contribute maintained Rain Gardens and nutrients and organic matter to streams. in local waters. septic Grassy Swales—Specially systems release nutrients and · Don’t overwater your lawn. Consider · When walking designed areas planted pathogens (bacteria and your pet, with native plants can provide natural places for using a soaker hose instead of a viruses) that can be picked up sprinkler. remember to pick up the rainwater to collect by stormwater and discharged waste and dispose of it and soak into the · Use pesticides and fertilizers into nearby waterbodies. properly. Flushing pet ground. Rain from sparingly. When use is necessary, use Pathogens can cause public waste is the best disposal rooftop areas or paved these chemicals in the recommended health problems and method. Leaving pet waste areas can be diverted amounts. Use organic mulch or safer environmental concerns. on the ground increases into these areas rather pest control methods whenever · Inspect your system every public health risks by than into storm drains. possible. 3 years and pump your allowing harmful bacteria · Compost or mulch yard waste. Don’t tank as necessary (every 3 and nutrients to wash into Vegetated Filter Strips—Filter strips are areas of leave it in the street or sweep it into to 5 years). the storm drain and native grass or plants created along roadways or storm drains or streams. eventually into local streams. They trap the pollutants stormwater · Don't dispose of waterbodies. picks up as it flows across driveways and streets. · Cover piles of dirt or mulch being household hazardous used in landscaping projects. waste in sinks or toilets.

Dirt, oil, and debris that collect in Erosion controls that aren’t maintained can cause parking lots and paved areas can be excessive amounts of sediment and debris to be washed into the storm sewer system carried into the stormwater system. Construction and eventually enter local vehicles can leak fuel, oil, and other harmful fluids waterbodies. that can be picked up by stormwater and · Sweep up litter and debris from deposited into local waterbodies. sidewalks, driveways and parking lots, · Divert stormwater away from disturbed or especially around storm drains. exposed areas of the construction site. Commercial · Cover grease storage and dumpsters · Install silt fences, vehicle mud removal areas, and keep them clean to avoid leaks. vegetative cover, and other sediment and · erosion controls and properly maintain them, Report any chemical spill to the local especially after rainstorms. hazardous waste cleanup team. They’ll know the best way to keep · Prevent soil erosion by minimizing disturbed spills from harming the environment. areas during construction projects, and seed and mulch bare areas as soon as possible. Construction

Lack of vegetation on streambanks can lead to erosion. Overgrazed pastures can also contribute excessive amounts of sediment to local waterbodies. Excess fertilizers and Agriculture pesticides can poison aquatic animals and lead to destructive algae blooms. Livestock in Automotive streams can contaminate waterways with bacteria, making them unsafe for human contact. Facilities · Keep livestock away from streambanks and provide them a water source away from waterbodies. · Store and apply manure away from waterbodies and in accordance with a nutrient management plan. · Vegetate riparian areas along waterways. · Rotate animal grazing to prevent soil erosion in fields. · Apply fertilizers and pesticides according to label instructions to save money and minimize pollution. Uncovered fueling stations allow spills to be washed into storm drains. Cars waiting to be repaired can leak fuel, oil, and other harmful Improperly managed logging operations can result in erosion and fluids that can be picked up by stormwater. sedimentation. Forestry · Clean up spills immediately and properly · Conduct preharvest planning to prevent erosion and lower costs. dispose of cleanup materials. · Use logging methods and equipment that minimize soil disturbance. · Provide cover over fueling stations and · design or retrofit facilities for spill Plan and design skid trails, yard areas, and truck access roads to containment. minimize stream crossings and avoid disturbing the forest floor. · · Properly maintain fleet vehicles to prevent Construct stream crossings so that they minimize erosion and physical oil, gas, and other discharges from being changes to streams. washed into local waterbodies. · Expedite revegetation of cleared areas. · Install and maintain oil/water separators. Detention Basin Maintenance Tasks and Schedule Detention Basin Maintenance Homeowners' Associations and Businesses Why be concerned? Are There Different Types of

Homeowners' Associations and business owners are entirely Detention Basins? Tasks ComponentsDetention BasinDetention Side-Slopes DetentionBasin Bottom DetentionBasin Inlets BasinCatch Outlet Basin orCatch Inlets BasinStorm Sumps Sewer System Schedule responsible for maintaining their Overflow Control Structures detention basins Detention basins Inspect for sediment accumulation Yes, in general there are three types of detention basins: l l l l l l l Annually require maintenance to ensure that they function properly Poorly • Dry Detention Basins Remove sediment accumulation l l l l l l l Every 5-10 years as needed maintained basins, regardless of their • Wet Detention Basins design, lose their ability both to • Stormwater Marsh Basins Inspect for debris (dead vegetation l l l l l l l Early spring, fall and after major control flooding on private property and trash) storms and prevent pollutants like sediments, Dry detention basins are typically dry fertilizers and pesticides from entering depressions except after a major rain storm Clean debris l l l l l l l As needed the creeks and streams near homes and when they temporarily fill with stormwater businesses These basins slow the rate at which Inspect for erosion on banks and l l l l l l l Early spring, fall and after major stormwater from new developments enters bottom storms Detention basins are typically located streams and rivers and thus help prevent where new residential, commercial, flooding; however, dry detention basins Reestablish permanent vegetation l l l l l l l As needed and industrial centers are developed are not very effective at removing on eroded slopes New development replaces open land pollutants because the stormwater from and forest with impervious surfaces Dry Detention Basin smaller storms passes through more Rake out dead vegetation l l l l l l l Annually - early spring such as parking lots, roads and roof quickly Smaller storms (with less rain) tops As stormwater runs off these contain higher amounts of pollutants than larger storms The side slopes of these Inspect for and remove purple l l l l l l l Annually - July impervious surfaces it enters streams basins are generally vegetated with short, turf grass loosestrife and rivers at a much faster rate, causing streambank erosion and Like dry detention basins, wet detention Replace stone rip-rap l l l l l l l Every 3-5 years as needed possible flooding downstream basins also help control flooding, but they Detention basins help to control are more effective at removing pollutants Mowing l l l l l l l 0 to 2 times per year potential flooding and improve water from stormwater Wet detention basins quality
typically have a permanent pool of water Inspect structural elements during wet l l l l l l l Annually and more wetland plant life The weather and compare to as-built plans permanent pool of water allows pollutants (by a professional engineer reporting such as sediments to settle to the bottom to Homeowners’ Association) of the basin In addition, the wetland GETTING HELP vegetation helps filter out pollutants and Make adjustments or replacements l l l l l l l As needed Wet Detention Basin uses others up, such as fertilizers, as the as determined by annual wet stormwater passes through the basin weather inspection Canton Public Works Division  734/394-5150 Stormwater marsh basins are similar to wet detention basins, but contain more wetland Keep records of all inspections and l l l l l l l Annually wwwcanton-miorg plants such as cattails, bulrush and sedges The wetland vegetation absorbs fertilizers maintenance activities and report to that run off neighboring lawns and filters out other pollutants, which otherwise might Homeowners’ Association enter nearby creeks and streams They also provide fish and wildlife habitat Sources and Funding Keep records of all costs for l l l l l l l Annually The ideal detention basin provides the inspections, maintenance and • Brochure prepared by Canton Public greatest number of benefits including flood repairs Report to Homeowners’ Works Division control and water quality improvements Association • Preparation and distribution funded, in This typically consists of a wet detention part, through a grant from the Rouge River basin combined with a stormwater marsh Homeowners’ Association to have a l l l l l l l As needed National Wet Weather Demonstration Project basin professional engineer carry out (#995743-02), emergency inspections upon identification of severe problems Stormwater Marsh Basin What Type of Maintenance is • Structural integrity - Check the pipe to Examine the Side Slopes for Adding Vegetation to the ensure that it isn't crumbling or broken Erosion Banks Required? • Obstructions - Inspect the pipe end to determine if sediment, dirt, or debris is Twice each year (spring and fall) and after a major You can add more color and visual obstructing the flow of water into the pipe storm, check for gullies or sloughing of the banks interest, as well as improve bird habitat, and preventing water from leaving the Detention basins require regular inspection and maintenance to ensure that they are and other disturbances from animals or vehicles by planting a variety of shrubs and basin Stone around the outlet pipe functioning properly to protect private property and improve water quality At a minimum, Any damage observed should be repaired wildflowers along the banks of detention the Homeowners' Association or business owner should conduct an annual inspection may need to be replaced if it becomes basins Shrubs such as red-osier clogged with sediment immediately by filling any eroded areas with and an inspection after major storms topsoil and seeding with turf grass It is also dogwood, silky dogwood, meadowsweet, important to place mulch or straw over the seed common elder, buttonbush and highbush- Obtain a Copy of Your Detention Basin Plan Erosion to prevent it from being washed into the basin cranberry typically grow well where the If problems continue, contact the township for ground is often damp Wildflowers like swamp milkweed, joe-pye-weed, cardinal Obtain a copy of the detention basin plan from Canton’s Public Works Division to determine additional guidance flower, beggertick, marsh blazing star, what type of detention basin is in your development Inspect Vegetation aster, and goldenrod are good choices for damp areas Inspect Inlet and Outlet Pipes In the spring and fall, inspect the vegetation on the banks and in the basin Maintenance activities will vary depending on the type of basin If you have a stormwater marsh basin, Pump Station dead cattails and other decomposing vegetation in the basin should be removed if they are Inlet Pipes direct stormwater from developments clogging pipe openings Living vegetation greatly improves the water quality by filtering into detention basins, including stormwater from Pump stations are very common methods out pollutants such as fertilizers, pesticides, oils and grease, etc from the stormwater residential yards, driveways and roads Typically, of removing stormwater from detention there are two to three inlet pipes in a detention basin basins; however, they also require routine Late fall is a good time to cut down cattails This will minimize Check the following: maintenance Essentially, an outlet pipe clogging in the spring by dead vegetation Cut cattails should directs the water from the detention basin be disposed of with other compost materials • Structural integrity - Inspect the pipe to make sure to the wetwell of the pump station Once it isn't crumbling or broken Vegetation Planting the depth of water in the wetwell reaches Remove invasive non-native plants like purple loosestrife • Rip rap - Rip rap (typically pieces of stone) is a specific level, a submersible pump turns Although its bright purple flowers are pretty, purple loosestrife placed around the pipe where it enters the basin As an alternative to cattails, wetland plants on and pumps the water to the nearby forms dense colonies which crowd out native wetland plants to prevent erosion Check for erosion around the such as softstem and hardstem bulrush, creek or larger storm sewer system that are important sources of nutrients for birds and other pipe or missing rip rap Typical Inlet Pipe blue flag iris, woolgrass, water plantain, wildlife The plant is such a problem that it is illegal to sell it • Obstructions - Inspect the pipe end to determine pickerelweed and arrowhead can be Only a licensed electrician or company in the State of Michigan if sediment, dirt, or debris is obstructing the flow of water from the pipe into the basin planted in year-round ponded areas that provided the pump system should Vegetation Removal Minor amounts of sediment around pipe openings can be removed with a shovel and conduct any maintenance work Regular When increasing vegetation around your wheelbarrow, spread evenly on upland areas and seeded with turf grass maintenance should include the following: Removal of purple loosestrife should be done before the plant sets seeds in August Remove detention basin, remember that it’s best by pulling the entire plant out of the ground, including the roots Dispose properly with to add plants in a 15 to 20-foot zone next If any of these problems are occurring, or if you have questions, contact the Canton’s • Remove debris and sediment from the other yard waste that is composted to the water’s edge In addition, Public Works Division for assistance This office can provide you with a list of contractors wetwell and valves remember that pesticides and fertilizers capable of correcting detention basin problems • Test the alarm light Repair bare spots along banks with turf grass seed, meadow grass or wildflowers Most of usually applied to grass and planting beds • Inspect for loose fittings or missing the pre-mixed wildflower seed packages at local nurseries contain a mix of short-lived, should not be applied within this “edge” hardware brightly colored annuals and long-lived, less showy perennials Meadow grasses and zone Nurseries which specialize in • Inspect for pump damage wildflowers grown along the banks of the detention basin will reduce long-term landscape wetland plants are increasing in number maintenance Consult with professional landscape architects and nurseries to learn more For more information contact the MSU Inspect for Litter and about meadow plantings Extension Office for Wayne County at (313) 833-3412 Debris Mowing Record Keeping Twice each year (spring and fall) The amount of mowing required depends on the type of detention basin and the desired appearance Keep records of all inspections including and after a major the date, name of inspector, what was storm, check for Typically, basins with turf grass only need to be mowed two or three times a year Basins with native observed, and maintenance activities debris near the performed Keep records of all costs for inlets and in the grasses and wildflower plantings should be mowed only once a year in the late fall or early spring More inspections, such as consulting with Typical Outlet Pipe Riser Outlet Pipe basin Remove professional engineers, and repair costs and dispose of frequent mowing will prevent the wildflowers from blooming and producing seed Pathways through Good records will help you make Outlet Pipes direct stormwater from a detention basin to a nearby creek or stream Typically, debris or litter adjustments to the maintenance program wildflower plantings can be mowed more frequently Mowing there is only one outlet associated with a basin The outlet may consist of a single pipe, a with your house- Litter and Debris as needed riser pipe, or it may be connected to a pump station Check the following: hold trash Do not fertilize the grass in your detention basin If Removal you wish to minimize cattail growth in your basin, encourage individual homeowners to use low phosphorus ferilizers Best Management Practices: Keeping our Water Clean Vehicle Maintenance

Many common vehicle maintenance and repair routines can contribute to lo- cal water pollution. There are steps you can take to protect streams and rivers that are a source of our drinking water, and recreational opportunities.

What You Can Do:

9 Cleaning Auto Parts—Scrape parts with a brush or use a bake oven rather than liquid cleaners. Arrange drip pans, drying racks, and drain boards so that fluids are directed back into the sink or the fluid holding tank. Use nontoxic cleaning products.

9 Preventing Leaks and Spills—Place drip pans underneath the vehicle to capture fluids. Use absorbent cleaning agents instead of water to clean work areas. Prevent fluid leaks from stored vehicles. Drain fluids such as unused gas, transmission and hydraulic oil, brake and radiator fluid from vehicles or parts kept in storage. Use a funnel when pouring liquids (like lubri- cants or motor oil) and place a tray underneath to catch spills. Place drip pans under the spouts of liquid storage containers.

9 Proper Disposal of Regulated Waste—Recycle solvents, oil, used oil filters, anti-freeze, batteries, lubricants, and metal filings collected from grinding/ polishing auto parts. Contact a regulated waste hauler to dispose of saturated absorbents.

9 Proper Storage of Regulated Waste—Keep your liquid wastes segregated. Many fluids can be recycled via regulated waste disposal companies if they are not mixed. Store all materials under cover or inside to prevent contamination by rainwater.

9 Cleaning Up Spills—Follow your hazardous materials response plan, as filed with your local fire department or other hazardous materials authority. Be sure that all employees are aware of the plan and are capable of imple- menting each phase of the plan. Use dry methods for spill cleanup (sweeping, absorbent materials, etc.). NEVER hose down spills!

9 Metal Polishing and Grinding—Keep a bin under your lathe or grinder to capture metal filings. Send uncontaminated filings to a scrap metal recycler for reclamation.

9 Washing Vehicles—Use a designated bay where wash water will drain into the sanitary sewer. Vehicle wash water should never be allowed to drain into storm drains or drainage ditches.

For more information, visit the RRSEP web site at www.rivanna-stormwater.org. Tips for Homeowners: Keeping our Water Clean Maintaining Your Vehicle

Automobile repair and maintenance activities can contribute pollutants directly to storm drain systems primarily through spills or the dumping of waste fluids. Automotive fluids, such as oils, greases, and solvents may contain metals, chlorinated hydrocarbons, and other toxic compounds which are harmful to the environment and to human health. Removal of caked dirt and grime from an automobile can contribute to clogging of the storm drain system. What You Can Do:

9 Recycle used oil and antifreeze by taking them to service stations and other recycling centers. NEVER pour oil down storm drains. Dispose of cleaning solvents at a designated regulated waste collection center.

9 Immediately clean up and contain any spills. Dispose of all waste and adsorbent materials properly.

9 Store regulated materials and wastes (including, but not limited to, fluids, solvents, parts containing fluids, batteries) indoors, under cover, or in watertight containers.

9 Perform automobile maintenance and repairs over impervious surfaces such as concrete, so spills and waste material can be readily cleaned up. Use drip pans, plastic sheeting, etc. to contain spills and waste material.

9 Monitor parked or stored vehicles and equipment for leaks and place pans under leaks to collect fluids for proper disposal or recycling.

For more information, visit the RRSEP web site at www.rivanna-stormwater.org. Citv of Good Cleaning Practices VBONNE For the Auto Industry

Cleaning Up & Preventing Spills & Leaks Use drip pans and ground cloths under vehicles. Drain and recycle fluids from wrecked or leaking vehicles as soon as possible. Label allhazardous materials clearly. Train employees on spill prevention and response procedures. Maintain a fully stocked spill kit îear any cleaning agents or hazardous materials. Our actions Metal Grinding & Polishing w¡thin our Keep a bin under your lathe or grinder to capture metal filings. Send uncontaminated watersheds filings to a scrap metal recycler for have a reclamation. When using a spray gun or sand blaster, work inside, not outdoors. direct impact on our lakes, Cleaning Auto Parts streams, Scrape parts with a wire brush or use a bake oven rather than liquid cleaners. Arrange drip pans, drying and racks, and drain boards so that fluids are directed back wetlands. into the sink or the fluid holding tank. Recycle used solutions through a licensed hazardous waste hauler. These Best Manage- Prevent \ilash \Mater from Entering Storm Drains Use a commercial car wash facility for cleaning vehicles. ment Allowing car wash runoff to flow into the storm drain is Practices illegal. Prevent mop water from going into parking lots, help alleys, sidewalks, and streets. prevent

pollution Operate a Clean, Dry Shop & Dumpster Area from go¡ng Sweep, ffiop, or vacuum instead of hosing down garage floors or outdoor work areas. Keep dumpster areas clean and the down the lids closed. Do not fill dumpster areas with liquid waste or storm hose them out. drain and into our Dispose of Hazardous Waste Properly water Recycle oil, paint, oil f,rlters, and antifreeze. Never mixhazar ous wastes and label all bodies. hazardous materials clearly. Contact a licensed hazardous waste hauler to dispose of saturated absorbents.

;r l.ll

È. ll t Protect Outdoor Work & Storage Areas :i- -, Cover equipment, materials, and work/storage areas. Place bulk fluids in secondary containment. All hazardous materials and hazardous waste must be stored where they are protected from rain.

Clean \Mater Starts Here To Report a Spill Catl (253) 447-4320 or Bonney Lake 311 or (253) 841-5538 (After Hours & Weekends)

The City of Bonney Lake gratefully acknowledges the City of Los Angeles for the use of theù artwork Remember, you’re not just fertilizing your lawn

Our Water. Our Future.

Ours to Protect

Fertilize sparingly and caringly

Storm drains found in our streets and yards empty into our lakes and streams. So, when we fertilize our lawn we could also be fertilizing our lakes and streams. While fertilizer is good for our lawn, it’s bad for our water. Fertilizer in our lakes and streams causes algae to grow. Algae can form large blooms and use oxygen that fish need to survive. With 1.5 million homes in Southeast Michigan, all of us need to be aware of the cumulative effects of our lawn care practices. What can you do? Follow the simple tips on the back of this card for a healthier lawn that’s cheaper and easier to maintain. Fertilize sparingly and caringly

Sweep it. Fertilizer and grass clippings left on sidewalks and driveways wash into storm drains. So, save money – and our lakes and streams – by sweeping fertilizer and grass clippings back onto the lawn. Hire smart. Select a lawn service that uses organic fertilizers or offers a slow-release nitrogen, low or no phosphorus option. Request a soil test to ensure the right amount is applied. Don’t guess, soil test. A soil test will tell you what, if any, fertilizer is needed in your yard. Contact your Michigan State University Extension county office for more information.

Buy low. Choose a fertilizer with low or no phosphorus. Most lawns already contain enough phosphorus. Excess phosphorus causes algae blooms in our lakes! Go slow. Select an organic or slow-release fertilizer. Check the label. A slow-release fertilizer is one with at least half of the nitrogen in “water insoluble” form. Slow-release fertilizers provide a steady supply of plant nutrients over an extended period of time. Mow high. Make your lawn cheaper and easier to maintain by mowing high – 3 inches is the rule! Tall grass promotes root growth and shades out weeds. Let grass clippings fall back on the lawn. Clippings recycle nutrients back into the soil, so fertilizer needs can be reduced by 25% or more! Make fertilizer-free zones. Keep fertilizer applications at least 20 feet away from the edge of lakes, streams, or storm drains.

Find out more at www.semcog.org Brought to you by the Southeast Michigan Partners for Clean Water. Support provided by SEMCOG, the Southeast Michigan Council of Governments (313-961-4266), and the Rouge River National Wet Weather Demonstration Project. The Rivanna Regional The Food-Service Stormwater Education Partnership Industry & County of Albemarle Employee & Client Education 296-5816 Pollution Employees can help prevent pollution Prevention when urban runoff training is included in employee orientations and reviews. Steps you can take to help Promote these Best Management Albemarle County Practices (BMPs) to insure compliance Public Schools keep Virginia’s waterways with federal, state, and local regulations. 975-9340 healthy and clean 9 Stormdrains connect directly to state waters, including local streams and rivers, without treatment. Never City of Charlottesville dump anything down a stormdrain. 970-3631 9 Storage containers should be regularly inspected and kept in good condition. Rivanna Water and 9 Place materials inside rigid, durable, Sewer Authority water-tight, and rodent-proof 977-2970 containers with tight fitting covers.

9 Store materials inside a building or build a covered area that is paved University of Virginia and designed to prevent runoff from 982-4901 entering storm drains.

9 Post BMPs where employees and customers can see them. Showing Virginia Department customers you are working to protect of Transportation local waterways is good public (549) 829-7500 relations. Thomas Jefferson Soil & Water Conservation District 975-0224

This brochure paid for in part by the sale of Chesapeake Bay license plates. www.rivanna-stormwater.org How can practices in the food- Adopt these practices to help Spills service industry impact prevent pollution Immediately clean up spills using dry local streams and rivers? methods. Do not rinse them down. Parking Lot Drainage Virginia’s waterways are a vital source of Clean Equipment Indoors Cover, repair, or replace leaky the clean water used in our daily lives - Clean floor mats, air dumpsters and compactors. Rain can and are also important for recreational vents, hoods, meat wash oil, grease, and other substances opportunities we want our children and trays, garbage cans, and from dumpsters into the storm drain their children to enjoy, such as swimming, other equipment in- system. Wash greasy equipment such as fishing, boating, and hunting. doors at the mop sink vents and fans before storing outside. or near a floor drain Restaurants and cafeterias generate food Wash only in designated wash areas that that is plumbed to the wastes and cleaning wastes. These wastes are properly connected to the sewer sanitary sewer. Portable contain organics and nutrients that can system equipped with an appropriate equipment may also be pollute stormwater, which flows down oil/water separator. cleaned in dishwashers stormdrains and into local waterways. or public car washes. These materials can cause algae blooms Minimize Wastes Do not clean floor mats, air vents, hoods, and deplete oxygen, harming fish and Use re-usable products. Serve food on meat trays, garbage cans, and other wildlife. Cleaners used during food han- ceramic dishware rather than paper, equipment outdoors. Dispose of waste dling operations can contain caustic plastic, or styrofoam and use cloth mop water in the mop sink, floor drain, materials that can harm aquatic life and napkins rather than paper ones. If you or toilet. Do not dump waste mop water degrade water quality. Pathogens from must use disposable products, use outdoors, in a parking lot, or down a decaying food can also harm animals and paper instead of styrofoam. stormdrain. humans. Federal, state, and local regula- tions prohibit activities which contribute Toxic Disposal Recycle oil & grease wastes pollutants to state waters. Toxic waste must be disposed of Never dump them down storm drains, in properly. This includes used cleaners, parking lots, or on the ground. Maintain rags (soaked with solvents, floor grease traps to insure proper functions. cleaners, and detergents. Buy the Least Toxic Products Available Look for "non-toxic," "non-petroleum Recycle the following materials: based," "free of ammonia, phosphates, dye 9 Food waste (non-greasy, non-animal or perfume," or "readily biodegradable" on food waste can be composted); the label. Avoid chlorinated compounds, 9 Paper and cardboard; petroleum distillates, phenols, and 9 Container glass, aluminum and tin; formaldehyde. Use water-based products. 9 Pallets and drums; Look for "recycled" and “recyclable" 9 Oil and grease. containers. Pet Care • When walking your pet, remember to pick up the waste and dispose of it properly. Flushing pet waste is the best disposal method. Leaving pet waste on the ground increases public health risks by allowing harmful bacteria and nutrients to wash into the storm drain and eventually into local waterbodies.

Swimming Pool and Spa • Drain your swimming pool only when a test kit does not detect chlorine levels.

• Whenever possible, drain your pool or spa into the sanitary sewer system.

• Properly store pool and spa chemicals to prevent leaks and spills, preferably in a covered area to avoid exposure to stormwater.

Septic System Use and Maintenance • Have your septic system inspected by a professional at least every 3 years, and have the septic tank pumped as necessary (usually every 3 to 5 years).

• Care for the septic system drainfield by not driving or parking vehicles on it. Plant only grass over and near the drainfield to avoid damage from roots.

• Flush responsibly. Flushing household chemicals like paint, pesticides, oil, and antifreeze can destroy the biological treatment taking place in the system. Other items, such as diapers, paper towels, and cat litter, can clog the septic system and potentially damage components.

Storm drains connect to waterbodies!

Process Chlorine Free Recycled Paper Recycled Free Chlorine Process

Recycled/Recyclable • Printed With Vegetable Oil Based Inks on 100% Postconsumer, Postconsumer, 100% on Inks Based Oil Vegetable With Printed • Recycled/Recyclable

Internet Address (URL) • HTTP://www.epa.gov • (URL) Address Internet

January 2003 January

www.epa.gov/nps

or or

www.epa.gov/npdes/stormwater

For more information, visit information, more For Remember: Only rain down the drain! the down rain Only Remember:

Make your home The SOLUTION TO STORMWATER POLLUTION!

A homeowner’s guide to healthy habits for clean water s stormwater flows over driveways, lawns, and sidewalks, it picks Aup debris, chemicals, dirt, and other pollutants. Stormwater can 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 waterbodies we use for swimming, fishing, and providing drinking water. Polluted runoff is the nation’s greatest threat to clean water.

By practicing healthy household habits, homeowners can keep common pollutants like pesticides, pet waste, grass clippings, and automotive fluids off the ground and out of stormwater. Adopt these healthy household habits and help protect lakes, streams, rivers, wetlands, and coastal waters. Remember to share the habits with your neighbors!

Healthy Household Habits for Clean Water

Vehicle and Garage • Use a commercial car wash or wash your car on a lawn or other unpaved surface to minimize the amount of dirty, soapy water flowing into the storm drain and eventually into your local waterbody.

• Check your car, boat, motorcycle, and other machinery and equipment for leaks and spills. Make repairs as soon as possible. Clean up spilled fluids with an absorbent material like kitty litter or sand, and don’t rinse the spills into a nearby storm drain. Remember to properly dispose of the absorbent material.

• Recycle used oil and other automotive fluids at participating service stations. Don’t dump these chemicals down the storm drain or dispose of them in your trash.

Lawn and Garden • Use pesticides and fertilizers sparingly. When use is necessary, use these chemicals in the recommended amounts. Avoid application if the forecast calls for rain; otherwise, chemicals will be washed into your local stream.

• Select native plants and grasses that are drought- and pest- resistant. Native plants require less water, fertilizer, and pesticides.

• Sweep up yard debris, rather than hosing down areas. Compost or recycle yard waste when possible.

• Don’t overwater your lawn. Water during the cool times of the day, and don’t let water run off into the storm drain.

• Cover piles of dirt and mulch being used in landscaping projects to prevent these pollutants from blowing or washing off your yard and into local waterbodies. Vegetate bare spots in your yard to prevent soil erosion.

Home Repair and Improvement • Before beginning an outdoor project, locate the nearest storm drains and protect them from debris and other materials.

• Sweep up and properly dispose of construction debris such as concrete and mortar.

• Use hazardous substances like paints, solvents, and cleaners in the smallest amounts possible, and follow the directions on the label. Clean up spills immediately, and dispose of the waste safely. Store substances properly to avoid leaks and spills.

• Purchase and use nontoxic, biodegradable, recycled, and recyclable products whenever possible.

• Clean paint brushes in a sink, not outdoors. Filter and reuse paint thinner when using oil-based paints. Properly dispose of excess paints through a household hazardous waste collection program, or donate unused paint to local organizations.

• Reduce the amount of paved area and increase the amount of vegetated area in your yard. Use native plants in your landscaping to reduce the need for watering during dry periods. Consider directing downspouts away from paved surfaces onto lawns and other measures to increase infiltration and reduce polluted runoff. Pet Care • When walking your pet, remember to pick up the waste and dispose of it properly. Flushing pet waste is the best disposal method. Leaving pet waste on the ground increases public health risks by allowing harmful bacteria and nutrients to wash into the storm drain and eventually into local waterbodies.

Swimming Pool and Spa • Drain your swimming pool only when a test kit does not detect chlorine levels.

• Whenever possible, drain your pool or spa into the sanitary sewer system.

• Properly store pool and spa chemicals to prevent leaks and spills, preferably in a covered area to avoid exposure to stormwater.

Septic System Use and Maintenance • Have your septic system inspected by a professional at least every 3 years, and have the septic tank pumped as necessary (usually every 3 to 5 years).

• Care for the septic system drainfield by not driving or parking vehicles on it. Plant only grass over and near the drainfield to avoid damage from roots.

• Flush responsibly. Flushing household chemicals like paint, pesticides, oil, and antifreeze can destroy the biological treatment taking place in the system. Other items, such as diapers, paper towels, and cat litter, can clog the septic system and potentially damage components.

Storm drains connect to waterbodies!

Process Chlorine Free Recycled Paper Recycled Free Chlorine Process

Recycled/Recyclable • Printed With Vegetable Oil Based Inks on 100% Postconsumer, Postconsumer, 100% on Inks Based Oil Vegetable With Printed • Recycled/Recyclable

Internet Address (URL) • HTTP://www.epa.gov • (URL) Address Internet

January 2003 January

www.epa.gov/nps

or or

www.epa.gov/npdes/stormwater

For more information, visit information, more For Remember: Only rain down the drain! the down rain Only Remember:

Make your home The SOLUTION TO STORMWATER POLLUTION!

A homeowner’s guide to healthy habits for clean water