Non-Point Source Residential Pollution

Residential Pollution

Causes:

Fertilizers, weed killer, insecticides, and fungicides, loose grass clippings and leaves, soil from exposed areas in the yard, pet droppings, poorly maintained septic systems, detergents from washing your car, common household cleaners, improper disposal of paint, oil and other chemicals.

Effects:

Soil in runoff carries contaminants that smothers and kills aquatic life. Fertilizers, car exhaust and detergents cause explosive plant and algae growth, which depletes water of oxygen, sick guy

killing fish and animals as well as creating a terrible smell. Loose grass clippings and leaves also add to this and clog drainage systems. Pet droppings and septic tank overflows can cause diseases like dysentery, hepatitis and parasite infections by getting into drinking water and recreation areas. Oil, paint, cleaning supplies and other toxic materials from cars and batteries contaminate drinking water and kill fish, animals and plants.

Solutions:

Sweeping Debris

Leaves Compost

Dog Droppings

For use and storage of household chemicals follow the tips here: http://www.dcfr.org/hhw/hhwtips.htm.

go to Opala.org

Keep roadways, street gutters and walkways swept and clear of soil, grass and debris.

Click here to learn Best Management Practices for Grounds Maintenance.

Use environmentally safe cleaning products that don't contain phosphorus or other toxic chemicals.

Cut down on car use, check and repair oil or other leaks and take batteries and excess motor oil to auto shop for proper disposal.

Use a commercial car wash or direct the flow of water into grass clippings or gravel. Never let it flow into the street gutters or storm drains.

Click here to learn Best Management Practices for Washing.

Substitute natural products like compost instead of fertilizer. For instructions on how to compost, which materials to use, and how to deal with common composting problems, click here: http://www.compostguide.com

Use biological methods and traps to reduce insects, weeds and fungus instead of toxic insecticides and herbicides. Never apply pesticides or herbicides near wells. To learn about Biopesticides go here: http://www.epa.gov/pesticides/biopesticides/

Plant grass or plants in exposed soil areas.

Monitor and maintain septic systems for leaks and overflows.

Pick up and properly dispose of pet droppings.

Soak up excess paint with a sponge or rag, or pour excess into kitty litter to dispose it.

Click here to learn Best Management Practices for painting.

To get more information about household hazardous waste go here: http://outreach.missouri.edu/owm/hhw.htm