Did you know August is National Water Quality Month? National Water Quality Month is a time where you can learn about how to preserve water resources and protect the waterways in and around your communities.
In addition to providing education and information about water quality and preservation, the EPA also helped pass legislation to protect water. In 1972, the Clean Water Act was created to be the primary federal law governing water pollution. This act regulates surface water protection with the goal of eliminating toxic pollution from water-based sports and activities. In 1974, U.S. Congress passed the Safe Drinking Water Act, which works to regulate and protect groundwater.
There are many ways to help protect our water quality in an effort to reduce the negative impact on waterways and groundwater. Here are 6 tips to follow:
- Limit use of fertilizers and pesticides.
- properly dispose of household chemicals and oils.
- Install a rain barrel.
- Plat native, low maintenance plants and grasses.
- Take your car to the car wash, instead of washing in the driveway.
- Never dump down the storm drains or in streams.
Taking part in National Water quality Month can help insure our water assets are clean and reliable and protect our many water sources; lakes, rivers, streams, and aqueducts that are essential.
