There are some common-sense things that everyone can
do to prevent pollution. These actions are sometimes referred to as
Best Management Practices, or BMPs. They involve making small changes
in how we live and work. Click on the links below to learn more!
Pesticides and fertilizers can pollute our creeks and
Bay.
Storm Drain Inlet
Eliminate or
reduce your use of pesticides and chemical fertilizers. If you must
use chemicals, use them sparingly. Especially avoid products
containing diazinon and chlorpyrifos, which can harm aquatic life.
Control pests
with non-toxic alternatives such as hand-picking, traps, closing up
holes, and encouraging predatory insects.
Locate Integrated Pest Management Partnership Stores in your area. These
hardware stores and nurseries have committed to providing their
customers the most up-to-date information on pollutants and less toxic
pest controls.
Never apply chemicals when rain is forecast.
Don't over-water. Chlorinated tap water can be dangerous to aquatic life.
Slow down runoff by directing water from roofs and paved surfaces to areas where
it can soak into the ground or filter through vegetation.
Compost yard and garden trimmings. Use compost to provide natural, slow-acting
fertilizer.
Keep litter, leaves, and chemicals out of storm drains.
Not always business as usual for our
inspectors. Here, a pig's head and bag of pig guts sit in a
Livermore front yard.
Dispose of unused chemicals properly.
Pick up animal wastes and dispose in garbage cans or toilet.
