TOKNOW ONLY RAIN IN THE STORM DRAIN
Any amount of precipitation is appreciated when you live in the desert. And when it does finally rain in Arizona, it often comes down quickly and causes flooding that sweeps over driveways and sidewalks, through streets, and parking lots. These forceful water flows can also carry pollutants such as trash, oil, pet waste, and pesticides into our storm drains, contaminating water that eventually flows into our local washes, parks, streams, and wetlands.
It is also important to note that not all water is treated equally. Avondale has two separate water collection systems. The sanitary sewer system collects wastewater from sinks, toilets, showers, and washing machines that is transported through pipes and flows to treatment plants. Whereas storm drains carry untreated water directly into washes, parks, and riverbeds, which can then seep into our aquifers. While both systems have extensive infrastructure, the stormwater system that includes ditches and culverts, ponds and lakes, curbs, and gutters, is not part of a treatment process before it enters our groundwater. This is why we must all do our part to protect our water and environ- ment by remembering “only rain in the storm drain.”
Here are some valuable tips to help us all better understand the role we can play in keeping our stormwater free of contaminants, includ- ing the following:
} Pet waste Collect pet waste in a plastic bag and throw it away in a garbage can. Pet waste contains bacteria and other pathogens that are not healthy additives to our water.
} Automobile Maintenance One quart of motor oil can contaminate over 250,000 gallons of water. This is why it is vital to maintain vehicles and prevent fluid leaks. Use drip pans to catch leaks. Clean up leaks and spills using an absorbent such as kitty litter or sand. Just remember to sweep it up immediately and properly dispose of it.
} Vehicle Washing If
possible, use a commercial or self-service
car wash because it is more water-efficient. If you choose to wash your vehicle at home, use a bucket and phosphate-free, biodegradable detergent and direct wash water to landscaping when possible. Make sure you dispose of wash water in a sink or toilet.
} Lawn Care Overwatering can carry pollutants to rivers and washes. Use pesticides, fertilizers, and other lawn care products sparingly and follow label instructions. Do not sweep or wash yard debris into the street because it can clog storm drain inlets, causing flooding.
} Household Chemicals Keep chemicals in labeled, closed containers. Unused household chemicals, including paint, used oil, cleaners, and yard chemicals, should be appropriately disposed of or recycled. Take these items to a Household Hazardous Waste site or collection event. The next Household Hazardous Waste Event in Avondale will be this fall. Check our website for dates.
} Pools and Spas Backwash or drain your pool, spa, or water feature to the sanitary sewer using your home’s cleanout. Discharging pool water to the street can contaminate water with chemicals, bacteria, and other pollutants.
} Trash & Recycling Bag and tie up loose trash. Also, make sure you keep trash and recycling bins closed.
These healthy household habits can keep
common pollutants off the ground and out of our stormwater. In the end, protecting our water sources is a community effort that begins long before it rains.
RAVE May - August 2023 • 31
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