Chemicals
Rainwater picks up chemicals, metals, and other toxic substances when it runs off our roofs, streets and lawns.
In a process called "atmospheric deposition," mercury and nitrogen from auto and power plant emissions eventually settle on land and get washed into creeks and streams. There, it's joined by corrosive dust from vehicle brakes, oil from leaking autos and whatever pesticides, fertilizers and household chemicals people poured onto the ground or into a storm drain.
A few simple steps can prevent chemicals from entering our waterways.
- Store chemicals away from rainwater and dispose of them properly.
- Maintain vehicles so they don't leak.
- Wash your car at a car wash or on grass or gravel so the water can sink in the ground, instead of running off into a storm drain. (Remember, water that flows into storm drains is not treated before it is released into our streams.)
Source: www.nccwep.org
