Some of the pollution that enters the river comes from the storm sewer system. It is illegal to dump pollutants (such as chemicals, oil or fertilizer) into the gutter or down catch basins or manholes.
Don't pollute the river! Follow the steps listed here and help keep our river clean and healthy.
Yard Care
- Don't fertilize or apply weed killers to your lawn before rain (chemicals will wash into the sewer system).
- Apply recommended amounts of fertilizer or pesticide - do not over apply.
- Use slow-release natural fertilizers and low-toxicity pest control products.
- Sweep or soak up chemical spills on driveways and sidewalks.
- Bag, mulch or compost yard waste. Don't sweep leaves, grass and other debris into the gutter.
- Select plants and grasses that grow easily in Edmonton and require less water, fertilizers and pesticides.
- Control sprinkler run-off by watering only when necessary and aim sprinkler heads away from paved surfaces.
- Sweep your driveway instead of hosing it down.
Vehicle Care
- Take your vehicle to a car wash. If you wash it on the street, use non-phosphate, biodegradable detergents.
- Dry up oil or antifreeze spills with absorbent materials such as sand or kitty litter, then sweep up and place in the garbage.
- Drain oil, lubricants and antifreeze into containers and seal them.
- Take used lubricants to a designated gas station or recycling centre for disposal.
Pet Care
- Clean up after your pets and dispose of waste in the garbage.
Household Care
- Clean rain gutters frequently.
- Do not rinse paint cans, brushes, detergent pails or other cleaning containers on your driveway or the street.
- Firmly seal and store all used chemicals, and dispose of excess material at a recycling or hazardous waste facility.
- Purchase non-toxic, biodegradable, recyclable products.
- Buy only what you need.