Pollutants collected by stormwater runoff affect our watershed. Here are some simple ways that we can help protect our lake, marsh, and streams during our daily routines.

  1. When walking your pet, just make sure to bring a bag, clean up the waste, and then dispose of it in a trash receptacle.  At home you can set a schedule to clean up your yard once a day or every other day – and especially before a rain event.
  2. Fertilize when there is no rain in the forecast and use only what is needed. Don’t over fertilize. Immediately sweep any granulated chemicals off hard surfaces and put back onto your lawn. Consider an organic alternative to your fertilizer.
  3. Using a mulching lawn mower to retain and spread clippings on your lawn. The clippings decompose quickly and provide a nutrient rich organic layer on your soil that encourages infiltration of storm water.  Be sure to sweep up any grass clippings off the driveway and street that may get away from you during mowing.
  4. Raise your mower height. Taller grass will produce a deeper and denser root system which slows the rate of runoff and can help prevent erosion. Deeper roots have access to more water stored in the ground and can reduce irrigation need during droughts. You may even notice fewer weeds using this practice.
  5. If mulching is not possible for you, bag your clippings and start a compost pile with your yard waste and leaves or properly dispose of them with your curbside pickup or a registered compost facility.
  6. Take advantage of your free community yard waste collection service.  Any questions regarding yard waste pickup can be directed to the City of Mentor’s Public Works Department at (440) 974-5780 or pubworks@cityofmentor.com.

Thanks for following these storm water tips from the Lake County General Health District and the City of Mentor Engineering Department.