Hey El Dorado residents! Ever wonder where the rainwater goes after a big storm? Rainwater flows into our storm drains and then directly into our rivers and lakes. That's stormwater! But here's the thing: stormwater can pick up pollutants along the way, harming our beautiful waterways and wildlife.

What's the problem?

Think of it like this: rainwater washes over our streets, lawns, and driveways, collecting anything in its path. This can include:

• Litter: That plastic bottle or cigarette butt can end up polluting our water.
• Pet waste: Not only is it gross, but it carries harmful bacteria.
• Fertilizers and pesticides: These chemicals can disrupt the delicate balance of our aquatic ecosystems.
• Oil and grease: Leaking cars leave behind nasty residue that harms fish and other wildlife.

What can we do?

The good news is that we can all play a part in keeping El Dorado's water clean! Here are some simple things you can do:

• Scoop the poop: Always pick up after your pets and dispose of waste properly.
• Apply fertilizers and pesticides wisely: Follow the instructions carefully and avoid over-application.
• Maintain your car: Fix leaks promptly and dispose of used oil properly.
• Wash your car on the lawn: This allows the water to filter through the soil instead of flowing into the storm drain.
• Reduce, reuse, recycle: Properly dispose of trash and recycle whenever possible.
• Don't dump anything down the storm drain: This includes paint, chemicals, and anything else that doesn't belong in our water.

Key Takeaways 

By making small changes in our daily routines, we can make a big difference in protecting our precious water resources. Let's work together to keep El Dorado's water clean and healthy for generations to come!

Want to learn more?

Check out the City of El Dorado's website for more information on stormwater management and pollution prevention programs. You can also find helpful tips and resources from the EPA. 

Let's keep El Dorado sparkling!