1. Dispose of used motor oil responsibly -- recycle it!

Drain your used motor oil into a clean container and take it to an approved collection site. Many full-service gas stations, discount stores, and auto parts stores will accept your used motor oil and filters free of charge.

2. Dispose of household hazardous waste properly. Use non-toxic alternatives.

Never pour hazardous wastes on the ground, in a storm drain or in an indoor drain. Consider using non-toxic alternatives to toxic household chemicals. Call the Dallas County Household Hazardous Waste Network at (214) 904-3017 for the date and location of their next hazardous waste collection event.

3. Practice the seven principles of xeriscape on your yard.

Xeriscape is the practice of landscaping with native plants and plants that adapt well to our area. Because these plants need less attention and water, a xeriscape landscape will lower your water bill and reduce the need for fertilizers and pesticides. To receive more information about xeriscape, call (214) 670-3155 and request xeriscape information.

4. Use pesticides and slow-release fertilizers properly. Use non-toxic alternatives.

When applying pesticides and fertilizers, read the directions! Water fertilizers in with a hose and don't apply before a rain. Some pesticides can kill fish and other animal life and improper use of fertilizers can cause algae growth, which degrades water quality.

5. Don't dump grass and yard waste in storm drains or on creek banks.

Grass clippings and yard waste also cause algae growth. Dumping anything, including yard waste, can prevent effective drainage and cause flooding. Use a mulching mower or a mulching blade or put your clippings in a compost bin.

6. Wash your car at a car wash.

Cleaning your car at a car wash prevents the soaps, polishes, waxes and other chemicals from entering the storm drain system.

7. Correct erosion problems.

Use landscaping, retaining walls, and other barriers to prevent soil from washing away as silt into storm drains or directly into creeks. Silt prevents effective drainage by blocking and displacing water.

8. Report polluters and water quality problems by calling the Storm Water Quality hot line, (214) 670-5000.

Let's work together to protect our water.