Healthy Watershed Tips
The City of Lake Oswego considers almost any substance other than uncontaminated rain water entering the storm drain system as a pollutant. Below are several categories of pollutants and the most common substances in these categories that pollute the storm drain system.
Sediments:
(Construction runoff, sidewalk sweepings, pressure washing run off...) Sediments are the most common pollutants in stormwater runoff and typically care many other pollutants with them such as metals and oils. Most people typically think of this pollutant as "just dirt". But it can clog storm drains and cause flooding. Ultimately when sediment leaves the storm drain system it enters a local stream or lake and can smother fish eggs and fill in aquatic habitat.
Oil and Grease:
(Restaurant grease, automotive oil...) Oils and grease can either be petroleum based or food related. Petroleum based compounds can be directly toxic to fish and wildlife. Food based oils and greases may not be toxic to humans but can coat fish gills and block the transfer of oxygen into water (fish and aquatic life need oxygen to live). Oil and grease often end up in the storm drain system due to spills and intentional dumping. Some sources of oil and grease include uncovered outdoor storage containers and vehicles that leak oil and gas.
Chemical Compounds:
(Paint, soap, moss remover, antifreeze...) Many chemicals can create problems if allowed to enter the aquatic environment. For example; soaps and bleach can be deadly to fish if allowed to enter the aquatic environment. Even those compounds classified as biodegradable or environmentally friendly can have deadly and immediate effects on aquatic life.
Pesticides/Herbicides/Insecticides:
(Under construction)
Leaf Litter:
(Under construction)
Dog Waste:
Cainines for Clean Water
Household Hazardous Waste:
(Under construction)
