CONSERVE WATER:
o Prevent overworking your system.
o Fix leaky faucets.
o Run only full loads in washing machine & dishwasher.
o Shorten shower time (2 minutes less=700 gallons/month).
MAINTAIN SEPTIC SYSTEMS:
o Inspect every 1-3 years.
o Pump the holding tank out every 3-5 years to remove sludge and scum.
o Repair or replace malfunctioning or outdated septic systems.
TRASH, DON'T FLUSH:
o Pharmaceutical products.
o Personal hygiene products.
o Motor oil (recycle at gas stations).
o Household chemicals.
o Paint:
- Let paint dry in the can and put in trash if there is no local recycle program.
- Use water-based paints.
- Clean brushes with water in bucket and dispose of away from well & septic system.
- Re-use paint thinner.
- Prevent paint or toxic material from entering storm drains.
AUTOS:
o Recycle used motor oil (Wal-Mart, Tire & Lube Express, AutoZone, and many other service stations).
o Use a commercial car wash (drains into waste water treatment).
o Wash vehicles on the grass (filters grimy road dirt and soapy waters).
o Turn off hose when not washing or rinsing.
o Drain radiator and anti-freeze liquids in container for disposal
rather than draining onto ground
(toxic to groundwater and harmful to animals).
TRASH:
o Recycle reusable materials (cardboard, paper, plastic, metals).
o Throw away your trash in garbage cans (not in streets, ditches or roadsides).
LAWNS:
o Use lawn chemicals sparingly (pesticides, herbicides, fertilizers and others).
o Get expert advice for pest management(contact your County Cooperative Extension Service).
o Perform soil analysis (contact your County Cooperative Extension Service) to determine what is needed for
your lawn and do only what is necessary.
o Compost grass clippings, leaves and kitchen scraps for use as an excellent soil conditioner.
o Adjust sprinklers to reach lawn and garden surfaces only or use drip irrigation.