Homeowners’ Water Summit

Follow label instructions for use & disposal

Never dump leftover chemicals in your backyard, in the trash, down the sink/toilet, or in storm drains

Properly dispose of unused prescription drugs

Buy only enough chemical for the immediate job; share unused products with neighbors & friends

White vinegar and baking soda are safe, non-toxic cleaning alternatives

Commercial car washes recycle some wastewater and send it to treatment rather than into the storm drain

Lay down a tarp when using changing performing car maintenance or painting

Store hazardous chemicals in a self-contained bin in case of a leak

Never pour or rinse chemicals into the storm drains - they drain directly to the stream!

Use only the amount of fertilizer that is recommended – more is not better

Choose slow-release forms of nitrogen fertilizer. In most cases, you do not need phosphorus in turf fertilizer

Use pesticides as a last resort; A steady stream of water can wash insects off plants; insecticidal soaps & oils are non-toxic

Keep fertilizers and pesticides off of sidewalks

Establish a groundcover or use mulch on all bare soil areas

Use organic mulches, such as wood chips, in flower beds to reduce weeds and conserve water

Select native and xeriscape plants, which require less water and fertilizer and fewer pesticides

Ensure that your irrigation system is not directing water to paved surfaces

Determine an efficient watering schedule to reduce runoff from lawns

Utah residents may collect up to 200 gallons of rainwater without registering with the Division of Water Rights and up to 2,500 gallons with registration

Collecting and storing rainwater from your property reduces the amount of runoff and can help to reduce non-point source pollution leaving your property

Pet waste contains high concentrations of nitrogen and phosphorus and can transport harmful bacteria

Carry a pet waste bag with you to pick up your pet's waste, and properly dispose of it in a trash bin

Manage your own waste properly when outside - different environments require different methods of waste disposal

Use biodegradable, non-toxic soaps for personal hygiene and dishes when camping

Dispose of RV and camper waste at approved facilities

See gottagoutah.org for more details on recreational waste management