Resolve to be a Greener Neighbor
Brainstorming ways to have an impactful 2021? Take the pledge to become a Greener Neighbor, or some one who will take action, no matter how big or small, to reduce the amount of stormwater pollution in the City of Portland.
Be a Greener Neighbor by not littering!
Here are some examples of ways you can be a Greener Neighbor:
Pick up after your pet (bag and trash or scoop and flush). Pet waste contributes bacteria and nutrients to our stormwater.
Reduce your use of fertilizers. Fertilizers add nutrients, like nitrogen and phosphorous, to help plants grow on land but can also be easily washed away by stormwater and cause algae to grow in the water instead.
Capture stormwater in rain barrels or rain gardens. This will help lower your water bill and prevent stormwater from picking up pollutants.
Adopt a storm drain. This means keeping it clear of litter, leaves, ice, and snow so that water can always flow freely into it.
Dispose of yard waste properly. Always compost yard waste away from wetlands and water bodies or take them to the transfer station.
Reduce your use of road salt. When road salt dissolves into melting ice and snow, it can travel to nearby soil and storm drains. Salt in soil can make it very hard to grow desired plants and even small levels of salt in our water can make it unsafe to drink or unhealthy for plants and animals to live in.
Wash your car on the lawn or at a carwash. Even if the soap is phosphate-free, the other chemicals in the soap can pollute the water for fish, turtles, and other animals.