Lawn Care

Polluted runoff is the number one threat to clean water. Stormwater picks up debris, chemicals, dirt and other pollutants before it flows into a storm drain and then directly into the closest creek or stream.

Water Quality Guide for Lawn Care

Some steps that you can take to help protect our surface water include the following:

• Apply fertilizers and pesticides according to the label and follow the instructions to save money and minimize pollution.
• Avoid using fertilizers or pesticides before rain is predicted.
• Cover all materials that are to be used in landscaping projects, such as dirt and mulch. This will keep them from blowing or washing away and into local water bodies. 
• Dispose of yard waste properly. Leaves and other debris should not be raked or blown into the street or storm drain.
• If it's necessary to clean equipment out of doors, be sure that equipment is in a designated wash area that discharge to the sanitary sewer system.
• Make sure that all stream banks have a healthy riparian or vegetated buffer.
• Pick up litter every day, keeping parking lots and other paved areas clean of debris. 
• Plant native species of grasses and plants. They are more drought and pest resistant and require less use of water and chemicals.
• Sweep up fertilizer/pesticide spills and dispose of properly. Do not hose off excess.

Report Polluters

Call 336-747-7480 to report polluters.