WATER QUALITY IMPROVEMENTS
Home Irrigation: Quick & Easy Pollution Prevention Tips!
We’re now in California’s rainy season! Rain is a vital resource which increases our groundwater basin levels and brings life to plants and animals. However, rain and overwatering can cause pollutants to flow into San Diego County’s waterways if we aren’t careful. Unlike the sewer system which treats water, anything that comes into contact with stormwater or irrigation runoff can go untreated into our creeks, rivers, bays, and ocean. By preventing overwatering at home, you can protect San Diego County’s waterways from runoff pollution.
|
Home Irrigation Tips
Common pollutants which can flow into San Diego County’s waterways from Irrigation runoff include bacteria from pet waste, trash, and motor oil. Placing these pollutants in closed bins and cleaning up spills immediately are terrific ways to prevent pollution at the source. It is also important to ensure your landscape is only receiving the amount of water it needs, never more. Following these irrigation system tips can help ensure you’re giving your plant-filled areas enough water this rainy season without causing excess (and pollutant-filled) water to flow into our storm drains:
- Repair broken sprinkler systems immediately.
- Align sprinklers to water plant-filled areas only instead of the sidewalk or street.
- Water in short cycles and during the early morning or late evening.
- Skip watering immediately before, during, and after rain events.
For more tips on managing your irrigation system, refer to this helpful rainy season checklist and video on Understanding Your Irrigation Controller.
Capture and Reuse Stormwater
Stormwater can be a wonderful asset to utilize on your property. However, you need to have the right equipment. By installing a rain barrel or making your own, you can capture stormwater to water your landscape. Additionally, using rain gutters and downspouts can direct stormwater to your landscape and allow it to infiltrate into our groundwater table. This infrastructure can help you contribute to a resilient future by reducing water use, saving money on your water bill, and preventing pollution.
Check out the County’s Waterscape Rebate Program for a variety of rain-saving rebates and other water efficiency programs. Also, here is a summary of Waterscape programs and rebates that not only help you manage irrigation and leverage the benefits of rainfall, but also help to beautify your property though the installation of water-wise landscaping and features.
Thank you for protecting San Diego County’s water resources this rainy season!
|
