Public Health and Environment
Preventing Stormwater Pollution
No one likes to swim in a green, algae covered lake or fish from a smelly river. We all rely on clean water here in Washington County for drinking, fishing, swimming and recreation and it's up to all of us to keep our water clean and usable. Did you know that stormwater runoff is the number one cause of water pollution here in Washington County? Every time it rains, water runs off of roofs, driveways and roads and into storm sewers and roadside ditches. Along the way, stormwater runoff picks up dirt, fertilizer, oil and other pollutants, which are then carried to local lakes and rivers. The result is dirty water and lots of thick green algae.
It is up to everyone living in Washington County to help prevent stormwater pollution from degrading our lakes, rivers, streams, wetlands and groundwater resources.
Limit the amount of water that leaves your property.
Redirect your downspouts from the driveway to your lawn or garden so that some of the water can be absorbed. If you have a green thumb, consider planting native flowers and grasses to create a buffer along the edges of your property or build a rain garden to collect and infiltrate runoff into the ground. Consider installing a rain barrel, porous pavement or a green roof to limit stormwater runoff.
Limit the amount of pollution leaving your yard.
This means applying fertilizer sparingly (and only using no phosphorus fertilizer), composting your yard waste, and sweeping grass clippings and leaves out of the streets and storm sewers.
Prevent illicit discharges.
As a general rule, if you cringe at the thought of pouring it into the water at your local beach - fertilizers, pesticides, engine oil, grass clippings, or dog poop - then take the time to dispose of it properly and keep it out of the storm sewers. To report an illicit discharge, contact Pete Young at 651-275-1136, Extension 21.
Links to Learn More About Preventing Stormwater Pollution
Minnesota Water – Let's Keep it Clean
Washington County Department of Public Health & Environment – Surface Water Page
Department of Natural Resources – Water
Minnesota Pollution Control Agency – Water
Minnesota Sustainable Communities Network – Next Step – Water
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