Pollution
of rivers, streams and ponds in urban areas is the result of many small actions
that, unfortunately, add up.
Oil, antifreeze, lawn chemicals, paint or pet waste should never be dumped in a storm drain. Unlike sanitary sewers, storm drains do not flow to a treatment plant. Instead, they run directly to the nearest river or creek.
Instead of dumping these materials, residents can dispose of them safely through Johnson County's Hazardous Household Waste collection program.
Even "natural" materials like leaves and grass clippings should not be placed in storm drains. In nature, leaves and grass break down into compost on the ground, regenerating the soil beneath them. Very little breakdown of leaves occurs in storm drains, leading to large accumulations of organic material in rivers and creeks.
Lawn chemicals should be applied sparingly. Do not use more than recommended and never apply them when rain is expected. Soil tests can show when fertilizer use can be avoided. Slow release organic fertilizers are less likely to be washed into storm drains. Composting (leaves and clippings) can help maintain the balance of your lawn.
Pet wastes can contribute to high bacteria counts in stormwater. In urban areas, pet wastes usually don't decompose in place, they wash off. The best location to dispose of pet wastes is in the toilet or trash can.
Many urban pollutants are associated with vehicles. Oil, grease and antifreeze builds up on streets and is washed away when it rains. Wear of tires and vehicle-related air pollution settle on the pavement surface. Maintaining vehicles in good condition and reducing vehicle trips by carpooling, riding the bus and walking or biking for short trips can make a tangible difference.
There are many positive things you can do to improve water quality:
- Report Stormwater Pollution.
- Volunteer for community activities to promote water
quality, including stream
cleanup days, storm
inlet stenciling, volunteer
water monitoring
or youth education.
- Plant trees, native wildflowers and grasses
wherever possible. They capture and use rainwater more effectively than
grass,
and provide habitat.
- Learn more about the
issues. Take time to research the facts
on water quality and conservation.
- Discuss water quality issues with children,
family and friends. Long-term conservation of water and other
natural resources requires enlightened
citizen interest.
- Enjoy the water, streams and natural landscape. Visit the Overland Park Arboretum, take a walk on a streamside trail or spend an afternoon at one of our parks.