You can do many small, practical things to make a big difference in protecting Salem's streams and rivers. By taking simple actions, you can help keep local waterways clean and healthy. 

Practical Areas Where You Can Help

Choose one or more areas of concern and actions you can take to reduce pollution in Salem's streams and rivers. 

Water Runoff

Ditches and most storm drains do not lead to wastewater treatment facilities. In Salem, they flow directly into local creeks and the Willamette River. Runoff from streets, driveways, and lawns can carry harmful substances. Soil, pesticides, fertilizers, animal waste, oil, antifreeze, and soaps can enter waterways untreated. 

Landscape Care and Lawns

Pesticides and herbicides used in landscaping can be harmful to both you and the environment. When used improperly, these chemicals can wash into creeks through storm drains, especially when over-watering occurs. A healthy landscape can resist disease, pests, drought, and weeds. By adopting new methods, you can grow a healthy lawn and garden while reducing or eliminating the need for chemicals and polluted runoff. 

The Car

Cars are a major source of water pollution in urban areas. They not only cause air pollution but also leak oil, antifreeze, and other fluids onto roads and driveways. These fluids wash directly into creeks through storm drains. By properly maintaining cars and reducing your use of them, you can help protect streams from this toxic runoff. 

Pet and Animal Waste

Pet and animal waste is often overlooked, yet it poses a serious risk to water quality. Waste from dogs, cats, and waterfowl can be a major problem. Droppings can contain up to three million bacteria, including Giardia, E. coli, roundworms, and tape worms, which can be harmful to humans. In addition to taking the pledge, you can become a Capital Canine Club member and pledge to help manage pet waste responsibly. 

Water Conservation

In Western Oregon, the water supply seems limitless, but clean drinking water is still a valuable resource. There are many ways to conserve water in your own home. Small changes, such as installing low-flow fixtures, can save hundreds of gallons of drinking water each year. By reducing your water consumption, you leave more water in the river for fish and recreational activities, and you can save money on your water bill. 

Recycling, Packaging, and Garbage

Recycling is important, but reducing waste is an even better way to keep trash under control. Buying fewer products and limiting the use of heavily packaged items means fewer natural resources, like water and trees, are consumed. By making mindful choices, you can help protect our environment. 

By taking these actions, you can play a vital role in protecting Salem's streams and rivers for future generations.