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Citizen Fact Sheet
Reduce polluted urban runoff --
10 things you can do to protect the
waters of our streams, wetlands and Lake Superior:
1. Where does the water flow when it leaves your property?
Get to know your watershed: the water that runs off you property
flows via the streets, through the catch basins to storm pipes,
or through ditches or even directly to some natural water
source. Learn where the water goes and how to protect it.
2. Pick up after your pet. Use a doggie bag when you walk
your dog, clean your yard of animal waste and dispose of the
waste in a trash can. This is expecially important if the
waste is close to a street or water body.
3. Minimize the use of fertilizers, herbicides and other
pesticides. Investigate using natural pesticides and use the
minimum fertilizer required. Use plants suited to the soils
and climate of the region.
4. Take your car to the car wash (they
treat the wash water) or wash your car on the lawn where
the water flows into the
grass – don’t let wash water get to the street
and storm drain. Keep your car in good condition so it does
not drip oils or other fluids.
5. Don't sweep or rake yard debris into the street, collect
it and compost it or use gravel to fill holes.
6. Take advantage of WLSSD’s household
Hazardous Waste recycling center. Properly dispose of paints,
chemicals, motor oils. Never dump them in the bushes or pour these down
the sink or toilet or in the catch basin (storm sewer, rain
gutters)!!
7. Never dump debris or garbage into a ravine or creek!!
The material may kill fish or even block a stream causing
flooding. In Duluth report blocked catch basins or garbage
in the creeks to the City at 723-3551.
8. Do not hose materials into the street. Report any spills
or individuals putting materials down the storm drain.
9.Landscape for the environment. Reduce the impervious
surface on your property
and replace grass with natural plantings – use natural
plantings and trees to slow water flow. These steps reduce
the need for fertilizer and watering. Investigate a rain
barrel or water garden.
10. Remember - Slowing the stomwater down, keeping it off
of hard surfaces, and allowing it to infiltrate through as
much soil as possible will greatly improve the quality of
our streams and our groundwater
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