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Stormwater Pollution

Long Range Solid Waste Disposal and Recycling Committee 

Departments: Public Works

Stormwater Pollution

Be Part of the Solution
to Stormwater Pollution

What is the Problem?

Each time it rains, water washes over our streets, driveways and yards picking up pollutants along the way and flowing into our storm drains. This runoff may contain pollutants such as motor oil, yard clippings, pet waste, litter, lawn chemicals, anti-freeze, or other toxins, which can pollute our water supply as well as clog pipes and culverts which can lead to flooding. Known as "Non-Point Source Pollution", it is the largest threat to our waterways today. Sometimes pollutants are dumped directly into storm drains by neighbors who don't know any better. Contrary to popular belief, most storm drains are not connected to treatment systems. Whatever enters the drain is discharged directly, untreated into local waterways!

How Can You Help?

The storm drain inlets on your street are being marked with a colorful marker with a pollution prevention message. You can help by following these tips to prevent pollution:

• Properly dispose of hazardous waste and recycle used motor oil.
• Use fertilizers, pesticides, and herbicides sparingly and follow the manufacturer's instructions.
• Keep your yard waste, trash, and dirt off the street and out of the gutters.
• Clean up after your pets.
• Wash your car at the carwash facility or park your car in the grass before you wash it.
• Spread the word about protecting our waterways from polluted runoff.

There will be 2 DVD's available at the Hingham Library called "Reigning in the Storm" for people to educate themselves on Stormwater issues

Thank you for your cooperation!