Only rain should go down the storm drains

Even county residents that live miles from Humboldt Bay may be polluting bay waters without knowing it. Before pouring anything into the street, gutter or down the drain, think about this: On rainy days in Humboldt County, storm drain contents flow directly into creeks, through the sloughs and marshes, and empty into Humboldt Bay.

The storm drain system is separate from the sewer system, and rainwater and other fluids flowing into storm drains are not treated by the sewage treatment system. Motor oil and antifreeze from driveways, pet waste, pesticides and fertilizers from yards, and muddy runoff from construction sites wash into the streets and storm drains, impacting the water quality of streams, creeks and Humboldt Bay.

The bay is one of the most ecologically diverse bays on the West Coast, but it is large and shallow and has a very small mouth. Because of this, it does not flush well with the tides, and pollutants build up over time.

Just one quart of motor oil dumped into a storm drain can contaminate 250,000 gallons of water, harm the fish and birds living in and around the creeks and Humboldt Bay, and pose a hazard for anyone who uses the bay, including those who rely on it for their livelihoods.

To keep bay waters clean, remember that only rain should go down the storm drain. Park cars on a lawn or gravel driveway for washing, and pour any soapy washing water down a drain connected to the sewer.

Pick up and properly dispose of pet waste in a garbage can. Use pesticides, herbicides and fertilizers sparingly, if at all, and do not apply them if rain is in the forecast.

When possible, use non-toxic alternatives, and do the same for household cleaning products. Take unwanted, toxic household cleaners, paint thinners and used motor oil to the Humboldt Waste Management Authority's Household Hazardous Waste Facility on West Hawthorne Street in Eureka. Used motor oil can also be recycled in Arcata at Franklin's Service, 1903 Heindon Road, or at the Arcata Resource Recovery Center, 1445 10th St.

For a wealth of stormwater pollution prevention information for homes and businesses, visit http://www.CityofArcata.org and search for stormwater, or call Arcata's Environmental Services Department at 822-8184.

Originally posted here:
Only rain should go down the storm drains