How Can I Prevent Pollution?

Many people are not aware that most storm drains are connected directly into our wetlands, lakes, streams, and rivers. Unlike water that is used in your home or business, water that goes down a storm drain does not get treated at a sanitation facility.

Whatever flows down a storm drain comes out in a nearby waterway. As stormwater flows over land, down streets, and into storm drains, it picks up pollutants such as litter, lawn fertilizers, oil leaks from cars, winter sand and road salt, and pet waste. These pollutants can flow directly into our waterways.

Tips to Reduce Stormwater Pollution

  • Pick up after your pets
  • Don’t litter
  • Never throw, pour, or sweep anything down storm drains
  • Use fertilizers sparingly
  • Regularly maintain your automobile to prevent fluid leaks
  • If you must wash your car at home, wash it on the lawn to encourage infiltration and use low phosphate detergents in small amounts
  • Direct roof drains away from bare surfaces and bare soil
  • Dispose of hazardous waste properly at Framingham’s Hazardous Waste Day
  • Support community efforts to keep stormwater clean
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