Simple stormwater pollution prevention tips

Stormwater pollution prevention tips 

Stormwater runoff picks up litter and oil from vehicles in parking lots which can pollute rivers, lakes and streams when it flows into storm drains and downstream. You can help by following these simple pollution solutions to keep local waterways clean and healthy. 

Contain the rain: Add plants and green infrastructure such as rain gardens or, permeable pavement and trees, to help soak up stormwater and prevent runoff into waterways. 

Mop it up: Use oil-absorbing towels or other materials to clean up oil and fluid leaks from vehicles and make sure to dispose of them properly. 

Cut back on salt: Don’t put too much salt on parking lots and sidewalks. Never salt hard surfaces if rain is in the forecast or if temperatures will be above freezing. 

Lose the litter: Keep parking lots free from litter and debris. Trash can clog drains and contaminate water. 

For more ways to prevent stormwater pollution, visit ThinkBlueMassachusetts.org.