Little Steps You Can Take For Cleaner Streams, Rivers and Lakes
Small actions can have a big impact, so we’ve put together a list of simple ways you can help sustain our natural surroundings and improve local water quality. Here are 8 things you can do from home:
1. Install A Rain Barrel
Rain barrels are an effective way to reduce stormwater runoff entering our rivers and lakes while providing stored water for use on lawns and gardens.
#rainbarrel / resources
2. Start Composting
Composting at home is a great way to keep grass clippings, leaves, yard waste and kitchen scraps out of our landlls and waterways while creating nutrient-rich soil for your garden.
The City Compost Site is a great alternative to get rid of yard waste: cityofdefiance.com/divisions/compost-site
#compost / more info & resources
3. Plant Native Plants & Trees
Natives provide food and habitat for pollinators, absorb storm water, and provide erosion control, making them a great functional choice for low maintenance
landscaping.
#nativeplants / Riverview Native Nursery / wildflower.org/collections/OH
4. Fertilize With Care
Over-application of nutrients may impair plant growth, contaminate groundwater, and pollute rivers, lakes and streams through run-off.
#lawncare /Explore Safe Lawn Care
5. Pick Up Pet Waste
This simple act helps reduce the potential of E. coli pollution from washing into our rivers and streams.
"... the little deposits your pets leave each day are adding up to a big water quality mess ... Read on to truly understand how big this problem is and how it affects you." More on Pet Poo Impacts
6. Create a Rain Garden
Native plants reduce stormwater runoff and pollution while attracting birds, butterflies and beneficial pollinators. Rain gardens absorb 30% more water than a conventional lawn.
#raingardens / More info and Rain Garden resources
7. Grow Your Own Food
A home garden will provide fresh food for your family. Gardens also reduce transportation costs, provide a place for mulch and compost use.
8. Inspire Others
Inspire friends and family to adopt these actions. Share what you’re doing on social media with #landtolakeohio.
#Inspire #Share Follow Land to Lak on Facebook @land.to.lake.ohio/