When the winter rains hit, we are reminded big-time what falls from the sky seeps into the ground or eventually flows to the sea. Surface pollutants from a variety of sources (i.e. non-point source) can contaminate waterways and groundwater. Please make sure you are not part of the problem.
How Can I Be Part of the Solution?
1. Around your home:
- reduce use of household hazardous
products and use environmentally friendly alternatives. Here on Gabriola in BC, contact GIRO or check out the BC Product Stewardship site and contact info. to find out how to
safely dispose of hazardous products
- check and repair fluid leaks from your
vehicle
- reduce or eliminate use of fertilizers and pesticides
on your lawn and garden
- water your lawn and garden sparingly
- have your sewage system inspected and
pumped out regularly
- don't put solids or toxic chemicals down
the drain
- compost as much kitchen waste as
possible
- don't put heavy objects or vehicles on
the septic field
- don't release sewage in marinas, bays or
inlets. Install a holding tank and use pump-out stations where available
- use biodegradable products to clean your
boat
- keep motors well maintained to prevent
fuel and lubricant leaks
- reduce or eliminate use of fertilizers, herbicides
and pesticides. Follow instructions and provincial application guidelines
carefully. Consider using natural pest control methods.
- construct adequate manure storage
facilities and follow manure spreading guidelines
- prevent horses, alpacas and all livestock from access to streambanks and waterbodies. Supply and pump to troughs.
Source: BC Government, with updates from other provincial government sources.
