How Can I Help Protect Our Watershed?

  1. Stormwater
  2. What You Can Do To Help


                                                           Water Flowing Into a Storm Drain


Water that flows over land when it rains and enters our storm drains and local waterways (streams, creeks, ponds and Joe Pool Lake) is considered stormwater.

As water flows over land surfaces, it can pick up whatever is lying there: pesticides, fertilizers, debris, and exposed soils. That means these substances are moved directly into our storm drain system or local waterways (streams, creeks, ponds and Joe Pool Lake) causing many different problems. Pollution of our waterways can also mean we cannot boat, swim, or fish because it is unpleasant or even unsafe. 

Stormwater pollution can be controlled if everyone plays a part in preventing these substances from entering the storm drain inlets in the streets where they live and work. You can help prevent stormwater pollution by eliminating illicit discharges; exercising responsible use of herbicides, pesticides, and fertilizers in lawn and landscape maintenance; and proper disposal of used oil and toxic materials.