9 Simple Things You Can Do to Prevent Storm Water Pollution (pdf)

1. Clean up after your pet.

2. Dispose of household hazardous waste such as used auto fluids, paints, chemicals and batteries at a designated center.

3. Repair auto leaks.

4. Sweep up yard debris instead of hosing down areas. Compost or recycle yard waste when possible.

5. Use commercial car washes or wash your car on a lawn or other unpaved surface (more).

6. Use pesticides and fertilizers sparingly, if at all. To understand the impacts of pesticides and get good ideas on alternative pest control, check the state’s integrated pest management program

7. Clean paint brushes in a sink, not outdoors. Properly dispose of excess paint at a hazardous waste collection center.

8. Report dumping or other pollution at 1-877-OUR-OCEAN.

9. Sweep up and properly dispose of construction debris like concrete, stucco or mortar. On the South Coast, call the South Coast Recycling and Transfer Station at (805) 681-4345. In the north, call the City of Santa Maria at (805) 925-0951.

For more ideas, upcoming events and volunteer opportunities, call Project Clean Water at (805) 568-3546.