Preventing waterway pollution — part two

Did you know that most storm drains empty directly into our streams, lakes and bays?  Pollutants such as oil, antifreeze, gasoline, soil, litter, pet waste, fertilizer and pesticides found on our streets and properties are carried by rainwater into storm drains and eventually reach our local waterways.

Ever heard the quotes “Only rain should go down the drain!” or “Don’t flush clean waterways down the drain … Nothing but rainwater should go down our storm drains.” They are from the public service guide to preventing waterway pollution, a newsletter mailed to residents by Town of Hempstead Supervisor Kate Murray and Councilman Edward Ambrosino. The “No Dumping — Drains to Bay” medallions found on the curb near storm drains are part of the town’s effort to keep our waterways healthy. The medallions are a reminder not to dump anything down the drains.

With more than 30,000 storm drains in the Town of Hempstead, the cumulative pollutant concentration released from storm drains can easily exceed levels that are safe for local aquatic ecosystems. The best way to protect our environment is not to allow pollutants to reach our waterways in the first place.

The West Hempstead Storm Drain Project is an Eagle Scout community service project. The goal of the Storm Drain Project is to protect our waterways by placing “No Dumping” markers throughout the town, educating the community about this issue and providing information about ways they can help.

What can you do to help?  Don’t dump automotive fluids, paints, pesticides or other materials down storm drains. Bring these materials to the town’s S.T.O.P. program for proper disposal. Don’t leave soil, leaves or grass clippings on driveways, sidewalks or streets. Rain will wash these materials into storm drains. Instead, sweep them up. Dispose of pet waste properly. Apply fertilizer and pesticides in recommended amounts and only when needed.

Minimize the use of de-icing materials. Don’t discard trash in storm drains.

Placement of the medallions was made possible by the dedication and hard work of many volunteers from the community, BSA Troop 240, local businesses, the Town of Hempstead, the Department of Conservation and Waterways and Operation SPLASH.

Learn more about this project and what you can do to help by reading my article in next week’s issue of the Herald and visit my web site www.stormdrainproject.webs.com.