Protect Our Water

Most people know that chemicals like waste oil and paint cause problems in our environment, and have heard about water and air quality regulations for industrial operations. However, many do not know that our daily activities and things like sediment and yard waste can hurt our streams.

 

As development increases, more area is paved and less rainwater can soak into the ground. This creates more stormwater which carries pollutants to our waterways. Any activities that can create stormwater pollution must be prevented or minimized.

 

Click here to watch a video about properly disposing of common items without harming streams and rivers.



 

Pollution Solutions: What can I do to help?

 

Follow these simple rules:

  • Don't litter.
  • Pick up after your pet.
  • Don't let anything stay on pavement or enter storm drains except stormwater.

 

A good question to ask yourself is "Would I drink this?" and if the answer is "No" then keep it off of pavement and don't let it go into a storm drain. Even if a cleaner says 'environmentally friendly,' it's not safe for stormwater.

 

 

Click on an icon to find Pollutions Solutions for each activity.

   trash disposal household care  
Automotive Care
Household CareLawn CareAnimal CareTrash Disposal Pool Dewatering

 

 

Report Illegal Dumping

If you see, smell, or suspect that any of the following are entering the storm drain, please call the Stormwater Manager at 970-920-5080.
  • cleaners
  • chemicals
  • oils
  • discolored liquids

 

Report Dirty Construction Sites

If you see any of the following heading to the street, gutter, storm drain, or roadside swales from a construction site, please contact the Stormwater Manager at 970-920-5080.
  • dirt
  • concrete
  • mud
  • dirty water

 

Nothing should go into storm drains, roadside swales, streams, rivers or other water bodies except stormwater (rain & snowmelt).
 

Preserve Riparian Habitat Along the River's Edge

One of the biggest impacts to the Roaring Fork River is development along the river's edge. Although it may be appealing to mow and maintain a lawn to the river's edge, it is detrimental to the life of the river, the riparian habitat and the natural floodplain.

 

Natural vegetation:
  • Stabilizes the stream bank (preventing erosion).
  • Provides shade (maintaining a cool water temperature).
  • Slows and filters high water.
  • Helps prevent lawn clippings, fertilizers, and soil from reaching the river.
  • Provides a habitat (hundreds of species live in the area along the river's edge).

 

If you live on a river or stream bank, please consider NOT landscaping, river friendly landscaping, or natural landscaping.