How to Celebrate Water Quality Month

What can individuals and families can do to prevent water pollution from their homes especially during Water Quality Month? Here’s a short list of things that you can do at home to help:

• Not using antibacterial soaps or cleaning products. Regular soap and water will do the trick. Much of the antibacterial soaps contain a registered pesticide that is known to harm marine life.

• Not flushing unwanted or out-of-date medications down the toilet or drain.

• Not putting anything but water down storm drains because they carry water to local waterways.

• Fixing leaks that drop from cars and putting liners in driveways to collect oil and other materials.

• Avoid using pesticides or chemical fertilizers.

• Choose nontoxic household products when possible.

• Pick up after pets.

• Not paving properties.

• If you have a private well make sure it is tested and cleaned regularly. There can be bacteria build up in wells.

• Read your local water quality report so you know what the water quality is in your area.

Another option could be to gather a group of family, friends, and neighbors and volunteer to clean a local water source. You could bring a picnic (and some beer for the adults) and hold a contest to see who can clean up the most trash and debris, offering a prize to the winning team.

It’s a great way to get everyone together and enjoy an outdoor day full of fun and good-doing!

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