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Did you know that approximately 70% of Oregon’s residents rely at least partly on drinking water that is pumped from groundwater? Here’s what you can do at home to protect groundwater from pollution. What Goes on the Ground Goes in the Water As stormwater runs over hard surfaces, it picks up oil, chemicals, bacteria and other pollutants. If runoff soaks into the ground, some pollutants are filtered out in the soil but it may not be enough to ensure clean groundwater and safe drinking water. Polluted groundwater is very expensive or impossible to clean. Stormwater runoff flows to a local stream, swale, or into an Underground Injection Control (UIC) system such as a drywell or drill hole. In a drywell, a large “empty” well, water soaks into the soil and some pollutants are filtered out before it enters the groundwater. Regulatory Information UIC systems are regulated by Oregon Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) and Environmental Protection Agency. For more information, contact: Oregon DEQ: 503/229-5630 Statewide Toll-Free: 1/[PHONE REDACTED] http://www.deq.state.or.us/wq/uic/uic.htm For questions, or to report illicit dumping, please contact: A UIC releases stormwater underground; water wells pull groundwater for drinking and other uses. You can prevent pollutants from entering the water cycle! Clean Water Tips at HOME The water you protect may be your own! ACWA 11/13 ---PAGE BREAK--- Auto Care Vehicles are a primary source of petrochemicals, metals, and other persistent pollutants. • Prevent oil and fluid leaks with proper maintenance. • Use a commercial car wash or wash your vehicle on a lawn or other unpaved surface. • Keep oil, gas, soap suds and other pollutants away from storm drains. • When leaks are noticed, use drip pans and absorbents to contain and clean up the fluids. • Pick up pet waste and put it in the trash. Yard and Home Care • Use pesticides and fertilizers sparingly; use natural alternatives. • Properly clean up spills and overspray. • Sweep up and collect dirt and debris rather than hose or blow it off to the street/storm drain. • Water wisely to prevent runoff. • Cover bare soil with grass, plants, or rock to prevent erosion. • Garden naturally with native plants and compost or mulch to improve soil and plant health. • Help keep your neighborhood free of debris and litter. • Direct downspouts away from paved surfaces to areas where runoff can soak into the soil. • Use porous surfaces for driveways, patios, and sidewalks. Your healthy household habits help protect Oregon’s drinking water and your family from harmful pollutants. Simple activities or lack of maintenance can lead to water pollution. Managing Waste • Only rain belongs in storm drains. Never dump anything down gutters, catch basins, or onto the street. • Report illicit dumping immediately to your local municipality. • Properly dispose of household hazardous waste, including used motor oil, antifreeze, brake fluid, paint and paint thinner, pesticides, and cleaners. • Pick up pet waste and put it in the trash.