Carlsbad Watershed Network

Only Rain in the Storm Drain!

One of the greatest resources we have in San Diego County is our natural waterways. Yet every year, our creeks, lagoons and ocean are degraded by pollution.

In recent years, sources of water pollution like industrial waters from factories have been greatly reduced. however, now the majority of water pollution occurs from things like cars leaking oil, fertilizers from lawns and gardens, failing septic tanks, residential car washing and pet waste washing into the storm drains and into our waterways and ocean.

All these sources add up to a pollution problem! But each of us can do small things to help prevent pollution in our waters-and that adds up to a huge pollution solution!

A Clean Environment is Important to All of Us!

Why do we need a Clean Environment?
Having a clean environment is of primary importance for our health and economy. Clean waterways provide commercial opportunities, recreation, fish habitat and add beauty to our landscape. All of us benefit from clean
water-and all of us have a role in making and keeping our creeks, lagoons andocean clean.

What YOU can do to help keep our creeks, lagoons and ocean clean...
Did you know that storm drains are NOT connected to sanitary sewer systems and treatment plants? The primary purpose of storm drains is to carry rain water away from developed areas to prevent flooding. Untreated storm water
and the pollutants it carries flow directly into the creeks, lagoons and ocean. keep reading for suggestions on how you can help keep our creeks, lagoons and ocean clean . . .

Dispose of Yard Waste More Frequently
By disposing of grass, leaves, shrubs, and other organic matter more frequently — less will wash into storm drains.

Sweep or Rake
Sweep up debris and put it in a trash can. Do not use a hose to wash off sidewalks, parking areas and garages. Rake up yard waste and start a compost pile.

Clean up After Your Pets
Take a bag when you walk your pets and be sure to always clean up after them. Flush pet waste down the toilet or dispose of it in a sealed plastic bag and throw it in the trash.

Care for Your Cars
Fix fluid leaks immediately. When you change your oil, recycle it properly. For the recycling center nearest you, call 1-800-CLEANUP.

Reduce Use of Landscape Chemicals
Decrease the use of lawn and garden care products such as pesticides, insecticides, weed killers, fertilizers, herbicides and other chemicals. Avoid over- irrigation which washes chemicals tinto the gutter and storm drains.

Use Soap Sparingly
When washing your car at home, use soap sparingly, divert washwater to landscaped areas and pour your bucket of soapy water down the sink. Never wash your car in the street.

Buy Non-Toxic Products
When possible, use non-toxic products for household cleaning. If you must use a toxic cleaning product, buy small quantities, use it sparingly and properly dispose of unused portions. For the Household Hazardous Waste collection facility nearest you, call 1-800 CLEANUP.

For more information on how you can prevent the pollution of our creeks, lagoons and ocean or to report a problem, please call the County Storm Water HOTLINE at (888) 846-0800.

Information for this brochure has been provided by the North County Storm Water Program, which includes the cities of:

City of Carlsbad,	760-602-2799
City of Encinitas	760-633-2787
City of Escondido	760-839-4668
City of Oceanside	760-435-5800
City of San Marcos	760-744-1050
City of Solana Beach	858-720-2470
City of Vista	760-726-1340 x1686
City of Del Mar	858-755-9313
County of San Diego	888-846-0800

See also Whom to Contact for specific contact information.