First flush: spring is in the air (and water)

That spring feeling is in the air, which means that our lakes, streams and wetlands are about to get an extra dose of pollution. Each spring, snowmelt water flows off impervious surfaces (like streets, sidewalks and rooftops) and into storm drains.

Along the way, this runoff flushes pollutants like pet waste, heavy metals, road salt, trash and leaves through the storm sewer system directly to surface waters like the Mississippi River. This runoff is untreated and is a major source of pollution to Minnesotas lakes, rivers, streams and wetlands.

Luckily, there is a lot we can do to help keep spring in the air and out of our water.

Keep your spring runoff clean:

• Remove pet waste and trash from streets, sidewalks and driveways and put it into the garbage.
• Try to minimize salt and sand use, and sweep up excess salt and sand from driveways and sidewalks before it is flushed into the storm drain.
• Clean gutters regularly. Put leaves in your compost pile or yard waste bag for collection with other yard trimmings.
• Direct water from your downspouts away from your house and paved surfaces and onto your lawn.
• Wait to apply lawn care products until the ground has thawed and your grass has begun to grow.

By taking these simple steps, we can all help prevent the spring thaw from polluting our waters. To learn more, visit www.cleanwatermn.org or get in touch with Trevor Russell, FMRs Water Quality Program Director, via our contact form.