Rain is important for many reasons; replenishing drinking water supplies, recreational activities, and keeping healthy wildlife habitats to name a few. Problem can arise when it rains and pollutants from our daily activities enter the storm sewer system. Debris from our daily activities such as car maintenance, lawn care, and dog walking, can contribute to storm water pollution. Rain will wash away left behind debris from the surface of the ground, taking it directly to our creeks and streams and eventually to Lake Erie without being treated. Help prevent storm water pollution in Mentor:
- 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 at the Lake County Fairgrounds (June 10th and September 23rd). https://www.lakecountyohio.gov/utilities/special-collections/
- Clean up any spills on your property immediately before the rain carries it away. Use rags or absorbents such as kitty litter and dispose of them in the garbage.
- Clean up yard waste, leaves, and branches in your yard for proper disposal. Never dump along a waterway. Composting is a great alternative for garden lovers!
- Consider installing innovative storm water practices, such as rain barrels or rain gardens to capture storm water and keep it on site. Your gardens will love the natural untreated water!
- Pick up after your pets right away and dispose of their waste properly in secured containers.
- Keep all waste stored under cover, or in leak proof containers with tight fitting lids if storing outdoors.
- Use pesticides, fertilizers, and herbicides as instructed and sparingly to prevent excess runoff pollution.
- Report any suspicious discharges to ditches, creeks or streams that may indicate a possible problem in the storm sewer system. https://www.lcghd.org/contact-us/
Make a conscience effort to protect our area waterways and Lake Erie! For more information, contact the City of Mentor Building and Engineering Department at (440) 255-1100.