WATER QUALITY IMPROVEMENTS
RV and Household Wastewater Pollution Prevention
RV season is in full swing, which means now is a great time to be mindful of the impact that pollutants from recreational activities have on the environment and our watersheds. Water that flows through our watershed picks up pollutants like pet waste, soil and sediment, and trash and green waste which are carried to our waterways and eventually reach the ocean without treatment. RV wastewater can include sewage, bacteria, food waste, and soaps that drain from RV toilets, sinks, and showers. If not properly disposed of, RV wastewater can flow through our watershed, contaminate our waterways, harm aquatic life, and interfere with our ability to enjoy recreational water activities.
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RV Wastewater – Proper Dumping Tips
Properly disposing of RV wastewater at appropriate RV dump stations can help protect the environment and ensure more recreational enjoyment for years to come. The County of San Diego Watershed Protection Program has developed a handy RV flyer with tips for proper and safe dumping as well as an interactive RV dump station map to help RV users identify dump station locations before setting out on their trip. Key tips include:
- Securing both ends of the hose before opening the tank valve.
- Keeping an eye on the hose while dumping to make sure it stays connected.
- Closing valves when the tanks aren’t being emptied.
- Rinsing any residue or spills toward the dump station inlet pipe (connected to the sewer/septic system).
- Having spill response materials like absorbent (e.g., kitty litter, sweeping compound) ready to apply and sweep up – you never know what could happen!
The County of San Diego created this guide to make your experience at the RV dump station go smoothly and safely – print off these RV dumping tips and keep them in your RV!
Household Wastewater – Proper Septic Maintenance Tips
Just like RV wastewater, household wastewater from toilets, showers, and sinks can also pose an environmental threat if your septic system is not properly maintained. Key tips include placing food waste in an organics bin or compost instead of down the drain, and trashing solid materials like baby wipes, sanitary products, and cotton balls, since these will not break down and may clog pipes. Don’t be fooled by those products labeled as ‘flushable’ – they are not compatible with sewer systems, and the material can cause backups and damage to your home and our sewer systems. Additionally, make sure to take chemicals to a local household hazardous waste collection facility where they can be disposed of properly. Visit the County’s Septic Rebate Program webpage which offers $100 rebates to residents in unincorporated areas of the County to pump their septic tanks.
For other resources and tips to protect our environment and local waterways, visit our Watershed Protection Program webpage.
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