Lenten Discipline: Storm Water

Storm water pollution is one of the biggest problems facing water resources throughout metropolitan areas across the United States. The storm water pollution problem is especially critical in the Atlanta area because 98 percent of our drinking water comes from surface water sources.

What we all do matters! Typical storm water pollutants that are improperly dumped down storm drains and enter our rivers include motor oil, antifreeze, paint, pesticides. Also, runoff from yards (fertilizers, trash, yard debris and dirt) are contributors.

• One of the most common pollutants found in storm drains and creeks is detergent from washing cars.
• It is illegal to dump wastewater or water containing soaps, cleaning products, or grease and oil into streets or storm drains.
• Landscaping can help reduce storm water runoff.
• Pick up after your pet.

You can learn about your watershed at the Environmental Protection Agency’s web site: Surf Your Watershed

Source: DeKalb County: Keep it Clean, Because We’re All Downstream!