Minnesota Pollution Control Agency

Contact: Dan McLean, 651-297-1607 Toll-free: 1-800-657-3864 Saint Paul, Minn. - Minnesota is well known for the beauty of its water, but the accelerating expansion of roofs, sidewalks, roads and parking lots threatens the water quality of our favorite lakes and rivers. Normally, rainwater soaks into the ground, replenishing the ground water after it filters through soil, trees and plants. But when rain falls on impervious surfaces such as sidewalks and roadways, it is often channeled directly into nearby lakes, streams and rivers. Along the way, the water picks up dirt, bacteria from dog waste, phosphorus and nitrogen from fertilizers, auto fluids, trash and other pollutants. These pollutants enter the very water we depend on for drinking, swimming, fishing and boating. The pollutants can also kill aquatic organisms and fish. The Minnesota Pollution Control Agency reminds you that there are some basic things you can do to keep rainwater clean and make your home and landscaping beautiful:
· Plant native Minnesota vegetation and leave an undisturbed buffer of plants around lakes, ponds and streams to filter rainwater.
· Plant trees in your yard to soak up water.
· Encourage water to soak into the ground by installing a beautiful rain garden. Choose a place in your yard where water naturally ponds or collects (you'll find plenty of resources online).
· Use fertilizers sparingly and sweep up overspray from sidewalks and streets.
· Compost your leaves and grass clippings in your backyard and sweep them out of the street. Yard waste acts as a fertilizer, promoting green lakes and depleting dissolved oxygen that fish need to survive.
· Wash your car in a commercial car wash or on your lawn so that soapy water soaks into the ground.
· Bury or dispose of pet waste properly.
· Traditional asphalt and concrete driveways don't allow water to soak into the ground. Consider replacing them with pervious pavers, permeable concrete or permeable asphalt.
· Collect rainwater from rooftops in mosquito-proof rain barrels. The collected water can later be used to water gardens or the lawn.
· Rain from rooftops or paved areas can be diverted into grassy swales. Plant the swales with native plants in areas where water drains to collect and allow it to soak into the ground.
· Pick up trash in your yard and street and never pour chemicals or oil into your street's the storm sewer.
The collective action of ordinary Minnesotans to keep rainwater clean produces tangible benefits to our favorite rivers and lakes. Together, Minnesotans can ensure water that is safe for drinking, swimming, boating and fishing. And together, they can ensure that our enviable water resources remain as beautiful tomorrow as they are today. The mission of the MPCA is to work with Minnesotans to protect, conserve and improve our environment and enhance our quality of life. Find out more at www.pca.state.mn.us.