The City of Arcata would like to remind the community that storm drains flow directly into Humboldt Bay and to avoid allowing contaminants to get in the drains.
Storm drains divert stormwater from city streets straight to creeks and Humboldt Bay without filtration. Polluted stormwater run-off presents an ongoing hazard for the fish, birds and other wildlife living in and around the Bay and for all who use and enjoy it. While stormwater may seem like a small drop in the bucket of environmental protection and conservation, it has far-reaching effects.
Humboldt Bay is the second largest estuary in California and the most ecologically diverse coastal embayment on the U.S. West Coast. The City of Arcata is dedicated to protecting local waterways and Humboldt Bay from stormwater pollution this rainy season. Stormwater is rain that is not absorbed into the ground, but instead runs over the land picking up many pollutants such as pet waste, chemicals, oils, and dirt/sediment along the way. Storm drains are separate from the wastewater treatment system, meaning the runoff is not filtered or treated like it would through a treatment system. Remember, only rain should go down the storm drain!
Here are some stormwater pollution prevention strategies to help protect the local water quality:
- Scoop the Poop! Pet waste contains bacteria and parasites that make people, pets and wildlife sick. Carry disposable bags when walking pets. Keep pet waste out of compost piles and yard waste bins. Seal it in a bag for the garbage. Cleaning up after pets isn't just courteous, it's the healthy and environmentally sound thing to do.
- Be Wiser about Fertilizer! Use fertilizers, pesticides and herbicides sparingly and according to label instructions. Never apply them if rain is forecast. Local compost can be bought from Full Cycle Compost or created at home as an organic alternative to chemical fertilizers. Before using a pesticide or insecticide, identify the pest or insect first, and then research options. Visit ourwaterourworld.org to learn how to solve pest problems with less-toxic products.
- Don’t Spoil Waterways with Oil! Inspect and maintain vehicles regularly to prevent or stop leaks. Clean up spills quickly with an absorbent material like cat litter. Never pour oil on the ground, on fence posts, on gravel driveways or down the storm drain. Recycle used motor oil at a certified collection center, such as Franklin’s Service off Giuntoli Lane.
- BMPs in Motion to Control Erosion! Prevent dirt and debris from leaving a construction site and entering storm drains using silt fences and other stormwater Best Management Practices (BMPs). Stabilize any exposed areas after land alterations. When in doubt, opt for a dry version of cleaning. For instance, clean up sediment and debris with a broom and dustpan rather than a hose.
- Soap is for Dishes, Not for Fishes! Many household products, even soap, have chemicals that are toxic to fish and other aquatic life. Wash vehicles at the car wash or on gravel or grass. Rinse paintbrushes and pour soapy water into your sink so that it is treated by the wastewater treatment system. Never dump household chemicals on the ground, driveway or street. Take unwanted, toxic household cleaners, paint thinners, and any other household hazardous waste to the Humboldt Waste Management Authority (HWMA). For more information call their Hazardous Waste Hotline, at (707) 441-2005.
To report a spill or improper discharge to an Arcata road, storm drain or waterway, contact the City of Arcata Storm Water Hotline immediately at (707) 822-8184 or by email to eservices@cityofarcata.org. The Environmental Services Department can also answer additional questions regarding stormwater pollution and best management practices (BMPs).
For more information on preventing stormwater pollution, please visit cityofarcata.org/352/Stormwater.