August is National Water Quality Month. Let's focus on understanding the importance and impact of water quality in our lives. There are steps we can take to help maintain water quality:
- Clean up after your pets.
- Dispose of medications, paint, oil, antifreeze, trash, batteries, and other chemicals properly. Fedications, take them to drug take-back programs or mix them with unappealing substances like coffee grounds before sealing in a bag and throwing them in the trash. For paint, let latex dry and throw it out, but take oil-based paint to hazardous waste sites. Used oil and antifreeze should be taken to recycling centers. Rechargeable batteries and car batteries need to go to dedicated recycling programs, while single-use batteries might have local collection options. Electronics should be recycled at e-waste centers. Always check local guidelines and never pour chemicals down the drain to prevent water pollution.
- Maintain water and wastewater lines at home.
- Use fertilizers without phosphorus.
