What can you do to prevent water Pollution?

Preventing Water pollution is a global problem that is not easy to solve.  Solutions start with the individual.  Ask yourself:  "What can I do to prevent water pollution?"  Every person can play an important part by practicing conservation and by changing certain everyday habits.  Here are a few examples of what you can do:

• Keep pet wastes and debris out of storm drains--so that pollution does not drain directly to lake, streams, rivers, and wetlands
  
• Apply lawn chemicals sparingly--follow the directions carefully
  
• Dispose of used oil, antifreeze, paints, and other household chemicals properly--Check to see if the community where you live has established procedures for correct disposal of the these items
• Have your septic system inspected and pumped regularly to ensure that it functions properly.
  
• Purchase household cleaners that are low in phosphorous
  
•  Use permeable paving surfaces such as wood decks, bricks, and concrete lattice to let water soak into the ground.
  
• Control soil erosion with shrubs and ground cover, they soak up 14 times more water than grass.  It will slow runoff and soak up pollutants. 
  
• Don't hose down driveways or sidewalks. Dry sweeping paved areas, along with careful trash disposal, are simple, effective pollution reducers.
• Do not pour hazardous products down any drain or toilet.
• Wash your car on the grass so soapy water soaks into the ground. 
• Use a hose nozzle to prevent water from running when not in use.