Oregon DEQ: Sustainability-Clean River Tips

Do you clean up after your dog? Use organic fertilizer in your garden? Take your car to an automated carwash that recycles wash water? All of these ideas will help keep Oregon rivers healthy by preventing stormwater runoff pollution.

Here are some ways to care for your car, pets, lawn and garden that also care for our waterways. These tips come from the Regional Coalition for Clean Rivers and Streams, a partnership of agencies in the Portland/Vancouver metropolitan area.

Don't be a water hazard banner

Stop oil leaks
Stormwater runoff containing just a pint of oil can create a slick larger than a football field.

Cut fertilizer use
Fertilizers with high levels of quick-release phosphorus and nitrogen pollute streams, rivers and other waterways, impacting the health and habitat of water-dwelling creatures like fish and amphibians.

Pick up after your pet
Fecal bacteria pollutes our waterways and puts people at risk.

Use non-toxic products in your yard
Insecticides, herbicides and fungicides are toxic and can pose a threat to people and pets if overused or carelessly applied. They can also kill beneficial insects, earthworms, birds and other organisms, disrupting the ecological balance of your lawn and garden.

For more clean river tips in a fun, interactive format, see the Coalition for Clean Rivers and Streams Don't Be a Water Hazard website.

Clean River Tips

Stop oil leaks Stormwater runoff containing just a pint of oil can create a slick larger than a football field.

Stop oil leaks
Stormwater runoff containing just a pint of oil can create a slick larger than a football field.