Protecting Water Quality: Simple Steps You Can Take

Pet Waste Management is essential for maintaining clean waterways and protecting public health. Pet waste contains harmful bacteria, parasites, and nutrients that can easily be washed into storm drains during rainfall, leading to contamination of local streams, beaches, and oceans. Improperly disposed waste can result in elevated levels of harmful bacteria such as E. coli, posing risks to both human and environmental health. Responsible pet waste management, such as picking up and disposing of pet waste in proper receptacles, helps prevent these contaminants from entering stormwater systems and reduces pollution in recreational and natural water bodies.

It is important to reind the public to regularly clean up pet waste from their yards, as accumulated waste can also be washed into storm drains and beaches during storms, further impacting water quality. Pet waste left on the ground can have significant effects on nearby beaches and their catchment areas, contributing to poor water conditions and jeopardizing the health of beachgoers and aquatic life. By properly managing pet waste, individuals can help protect both public health and local ecosystems from the negative impacts of water pollution.

Host an Eco-Friendly Car Wash - Borrow a drain insert to prevent harmful runoff

Did you know that the water from fundraising car wash events can carry pollutants like soap, oil, grease, and heavy metals directly into our storm drains, polluting local creeks and waterways? When untreated car wash water enters storm drains, it flows directly into rivers, lakes, and oceans, negatively impacting water quality and harming aquatic life. Even biodegradable soaps can be harmful to the environment, making it essential to prevent this runoff from reaching the stormwater system.

To help your organization host an environmentally friendly car wash, the city offers drain inserts that can be borrowed for use during fundraising events. These inserts prevent harmful runoff from entering storm drains, keeping our local waters clean. Contact us today! Call 707-933-2229 or email ianderson@sonomacity.org to reserve a drain insert and protect the environment while supporting your cause!

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