Here are some of the basic ideas behind daily awareness. Please view the following set of fact sheets from the
Rhode Island Stormwater Solution's "Know Where It Goes" program:
Yard Care
- Divert rooftop runoff to a rain barrel or onto the lawn where it can soak into the soil rather than go down the storm drain.
- Never dump, wash, or rake anything into a storm drain.
- Reduce the amount of fertilizers and pesticides that you apply to your lawn.
- Sweep spilled fertilizers, grass clippings, and soil off sidewalks and driveways and back onto the lawn. Sweep, don't hose, the driveway.
Home Care
- Never put hazardous household wastes (paint, paint thinner, oven cleaners, etc.) down storm drains, or indoor drains. Call the Eco Depot at 401-942-1430, ext. 241.
- If you have a septic system, have it inspected annually, and have it pumped at least every three to five years.
Auto Care
- If you change your own motor oil, recycle the used oil.
- Wash your vehicle at a designated car wash or on grass, not in the driveway.
Pet Care
- Scoop your dog's poop and throw it in the trash.
- Don't feed waterfowl.