Be a Greener Neighbor
Becoming a Greener Neighbor is easy!
Some of the most harmful pollutants in our water come from activities at our own homes.
When it rains or snow melts, runoff can carry pollutants such as dog waste, lawn chemicals, soil, and more off of our property and into nearby storm drains. Everyone’s yard runoff combines when our storm drains empty into our local waterways, without being cleaned or treated first. A Greener Neighbor is anyone committed to take action, no matter how big or small, to reduce the amount of pollution that may wash off their property.
What can I do to be a Greener Neighbor?
Pick up your dog’s waste and put it in the trash.
Dog waste that is left on the ground or thrown into a storm drain can enter our water after it rains or when the snow melts. Dog waste in our water can cause beach closures due to high levels of bacteria, increase weed and algae growth, and use up oxygen that fish and other aquatic life need to survive. Make sure to scoop it, bag it, and trash it when you're out with your dog.
Reduce your use of fertilizer.
Fertilizers add nutrients to help plants grow, both on land and in our water. The City’s landcare ordinance restricts the use of synthetic pesticides and fertilizers for all turf, landscape, and outdoor pest management activities in the City on both public and private property.
Learn more about healthy yard care practices that build healthy soil for a beautiful yard without pesticides and fertilizers.
Keep yard waste away from water bodies.
Yard waste releases a lot of nutrients as it breaks down, which can cause algae to grow in our streams, ponds, and Casco Bay. Rake grass clippings and leaves out ditches and storm drains. Compost yard waste away from streambanks or take it to the transfer station.
Direct gutter downspouts to a rain barrel or garden.
By directing your gutter downspouts into a rain barrel, rain garden, or other vegetation, you'll not only conserve water, but you'll also stop water from running off your property and into a nearby stream or storm drain, collecting pollution along the way. You can purchase a rain barrel from Portland Water District or the Cumberland County Soil & Water Conservation District.
Wash your car on the lawn or at a car wash.
Washing your car on the lawn or at a commercial car wash can help keep soapy water out of storm drains and streams. Many car washes also reuse their water, so you can feel good about reducing your water usage!
Never dump anything down a storm drain.
Most storm drains empty directly into the closest water body – they can send trash, oil, dog waste, and other pollutants right into our water! Always remember - only rain down the drain.