Callaway residents urged to adopt storm water protection habits

CALLAWAY – As autumn leaves begin to fall and cooler weather approaches, the City of Callaway and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency are reminding residents about the importance of protecting local waterways from storm water pollution. The city is encouraging homeowners to adopt simple, everyday habits that can significantly reduce the amount of pollutants entering storm drains and, ultimately, Callaway's lakes, streams, and rivers.

Stormwater pollution is a community-wide concern, as runoff from driveways, lawns, and sidewalks can pick up a variety of contaminants. These include chemicals, dirt, debris, and pet waste, all of which are discharged untreated into the water bodies used for recreation and drinking water. According to the EPA, polluted runoff is a leading threat to clean water across the nation.

Residents can take several practical steps to minimize their impact. When washing vehicles, opting for a commercial car wash or washing on a lawn or other unpaved surface helps prevent soapy, dirty water from entering storm drains. Checking vehicles, boats, and other machinery for leaks and promptly cleaning up spills with absorbent materials, rather than rinsing them into drains, is also crucial. Used oil and automotive fluids should be recycled at participating service stations and never dumped down storm drains or placed in regular trash.

For lawn and garden care, the advice is to use pesticides and fertilizers sparingly and only in recommended amounts. Applying these chemicals before moderate to heavy rain should be avoided, as they can easily be washed into the storm system. Selecting native, drought-resistant plants can reduce the need for water, fertilizer, and pesticides. Yard waste should be swept up rather than washed away, and composting or recycling is encouraged. Overwatering lawns should also be avoided, with watering best done during cooler parts of the day.

Pet owners are reminded to pick up after their pets when walking them. Flushing pet waste is the preferred disposal method, as leaving it on the ground can lead to harmful bacteria and nutrients washing into local waterbodies.

Home repair and improvement projects also present opportunities for pollution. Before starting outdoor work, residents should locate and protect nearby storm drains from debris. Construction debris like concrete and mortar should be swept up and properly disposed of. Hazardous substances such as solvents and cleaners should be used in minimal amounts, spills cleaned up immediately, and waste disposed of safely. Storing these substances properly can prevent leaks.

For swimming pools, draining should only occur when necessary, and pool water should be directed to the lowest area of the yard to allow for percolation. Pool chemicals should be stored properly to prevent leaks and spills, ideally in a covered area.

These healthy household habits are vital for protecting Callaway's water resources. Residents are encouraged to share these practices with their neighbors.

For more information, residents can contact the Callaway Public Works Department at 324 S. Berthe Ave. or visit the EPA website.