Pollution Prevention Tips
We have compiled a list of tips to help prevent pollution in the Rouge River.
1. Maintaining lawns and gardens
Keep fertilizers, pesticides and herbicides off paved
surfaces and
out of drainage paths. When choosing a
fertilizer, select a slow-release
formula. Click
here for more
information on maintaining lawn and gardens to reduce
pollution.
2. Winter snow removal tips
Road salt can be harmful to the river, plants and
animals. Click here
for river friendly snow and ice
removal tips.
3. Landscape with native plants/avoid invasive plants
Native plants save time and money. Click
here for more information
on the use of native plants and avoiding invasive
plants.
4. Washing your automobile
Direct polluted wash water away from streets and storm
drains. Wash
your car on your lawn or better--go to a
car wash.
5. Repairing your Automobile
Repair vehicles only in areas where leaks and spills
cannot flow
toward storm drains, or better--take it to a
mechanic.
6. Caring for pets and other animals
Clean up animal waste before it rains. Throw it in the
trash or flush
it down the toilet.
7. Disconnecting /Redirecting Downspouts
Disconnect downspouts from sewer systems. Direct
them into a
vegetated area away from building
foundations.
8. Cleaning up spills and leaks
Do not use your hose as a broom. Do not wash or
sweep debris, spilled
or leaked materials into storm
drain.
9. Managing household hazardous waste
Properly dispose of household hazardous waste and
call your local
community to find out if they have a
collection day. Use non-toxic alternatives
when
possible. Click
here for more information about
household hazardous waste.
10. Installing and repairing plumbing
Connect plumbing in your home to the sanitary sewer
only, not to the
storm drains.
11. Installing driveways, walkways and patios
Use paving materials that are porous and/or sloped
toward vegetated
areas.
12. Maintaining septic systems
Operate, maintain and clean septic systems properly.
Hook up to a
sanitary sewer where available. Click
here
for more
information.
13. Travel Trailer Waste
Protect the environment while you enjoy it! Make
sure
you dispose of waste properly and take it a disposal
facility.
Empty your tanks before you leave each
campground/resort. Do NOT dump the
waste into a
storm drain! The following facilities accept
recreation
vehicle waste in this area:
- Detroit Wastewater Treatment Plant:
9300 West Jefferson, Detroit
- SE Oakland County:
29132 Stephenson Highway, Madison Heights
- A & S RV Center Inc.:
2375 Opdyke, Auburn Hills
14. Fats, Oil and Grease
Referred to as FOG, Fats, Oil and Grease in sewer
pipes can
create pollution problems for the Rouge River.
Click
here to learn
more.
15. Find out More
Are you interested in more information regarding
water pollution and
the streams, creeks and rivers of your community?
Contact these
local watershed organizations:
For more information on preventing pollution to the Rouge River, call the
Rouge Information Line at (888) 223-2363 or visit our web site at
www.rougeriver.com
|
