As the winter season approaches, it brings cold weather, ice and typically in Northeast Ohio, a lot of snow, but it also brings a lot of concern for pollution getting into our waterways. The ground freezes and loses its natural ability to filter pollutants. These pollutants accumulate in snow banks and ice throughout the winter months.
When the snow finally melts, grit, grime, dirt and salt are washed away into our storm water systems, rivers and Lake Erie. As these pollutants accumulate for a long period of time, they contribute to larger amounts of pollutants in our waterways.
It is important to take the following steps to help reduce the amount of pollution during the winter months:
- Remove as much ice as possible, then apply salt sparingly and sweep up any spilled or excess amounts of salt. A little goes a long way!
- Use environmentally friendly alternatives to salt. Sand can be used to help deice as well as provide traction on driveways and sidewalks. But remember to sweep it up after the ice has melted to prevent it from washing off into nearby drainage ways.
- Pick up pet waste immediately. Don’t leave it buried in the snow. Animal waste is a significant source of bacteria.
- Clean your car at a commercial car wash where the soapy water drains to a waste water treatment facility.
- Check vehicles for leaking oils and fluids. Also, dispose of drained fluids properly. Many service stations will collect your used motor oil.
Do your part to help keep our waterways clean! For more information, contact the City of Mentor Building and Engineering Department at (440) 255-1100.