Clean Water: It’s up to you New Jersey

If you litter in the street, you might as well litter in the river. Rain washes pollutants into storm drains and directly into our lakes, rivers and the ocean. So what can you do?

http://www.cleanwaternj.org

What’s the problem with litter?

When was the last time you saw someone littering? Litter just doesn’t appear-it’s the result of careless actions. No matter where litter is discarded, it usually ends up in the street, where it washes down storm drains and ultimately flows to local waterways.

Littering is not only unsightly, it’s a threat to wildlife and their habitat. Before you flick a cigarette butt out of your window or throw out a plastic bottle, consider this: Cigarette filters have been found in the stomachs of marine life, birds and other animals, because they thought it was food. Birds and marine life have also been found trapped or tangled in plastic items such as six pack drink holders, plastic bags and fishing lines. Please be considerate and protect our wildlife and our water.

You can help!

*Set up an example for others, especially children by not littering.

*Carry a litter bag in your car.

*Make sure trash cans have lids that can be securely fastened.

*If you have curbside trash collection, don’t put loose trash in boxes.

*Prevent trash cans from being knocked over by the wind and animals.

*Tie papers in a bundle before placing them in a curbside recycling bin.

*If you own a business, check dumpsters daily to see that top and side doors are closed.

*If you or a family member is involved in a civic group, scouting or recreational sports program, encourage the group to “adopt” a spot in your town and maintain it on a regular basis.

*Report areas where people have illegally dumped garbage and debris and ask that the material be removed.

*Volunteer to help organize a cleanup.

Why should you care about clean water?

Storm water pollution is one of the greatest threats to New Jersey’s clean water supply. Clean water provides access to safe drinking water, places for recreation, commercial opportunities, healthy wildlife habitats and adds beauty to our landscape. Rain washes pollution from streets, parking lots and lawns into storm drains, then directly to our streams, rivers, lakes and the ocean.

Did you know more than 60% of water pollution comes from things such as motor oil, fertilizers, pet waste and detergents? By sharing the responsibility and making small, easy changes in our daily lives, we can keep common pollutants out of storm water.

Clean Water http://www.cleanwaterNJ.org

Disclaimer: This information was taken directly from the Clean Water NJ pamphlet and I give them full credit on the information provided. Please call or email them directly for more information on the subject.