Rain is important for replenishing drinking water supplies, recreational activities, and keeping healthy wildlife habitats, but a problem can arise when stormwater runoff generates from land surfaces and is impacted by the activities we conduct on a daily basis. These activities have the potential to generate stormwater pollution. Follow these recommendations to prevent storm water pollution:
- Properly store and dispose of hazardous substances such as used oil, cleaning supplies and paint. Never pour them down any part of the storm sewer system and report anyone who does. **Take advantage of the Lake County Hazardous Waste Collection Events this year!**
- Clean up any chemical spills on your property immediately before the rain carries it away. Use rags or absorbents (kitty litter works great) and dispose of them in the garbage.
- Clean up your yard waste for proper disposal or composting. Never dump along a waterway.
- Use pesticides, fertilizers, and herbicides as instructed and sparingly to prevent excess runoff pollution. Recommend storing chemicals in a secondary container (bin) and in a safe location to prevent spills/leaks.
- Consider installing innovative storm water practices, such as rain barrels or rain gardens to capture storm water and keep it on site.
- Bag your pet’s waste right away and dispose of in the garbage.
- Keep all waste stored indoors, or in leak proof containers with tight fitting lids if storing outdoors.
It‘s important to be aware of the significance of our behavior and that our actions can either pollute or protect our waterways. Decide to make a conscience effort.
For more information, contact the City of Mentor Building and Engineering Department at (440) 255-1100.