Vehicles that leak oil and other fluids such as antifreeze, transmission or brake fluid are dangerous for us and bad for the environment. Every year, more than 7 million quarts of motor oil drips out of vehicles onto streets and parking lots and mixes with rain water into stormwater runoff. In Newton, this runoff flows untreated to Sand Creek and other streams.

Remember, it’s illegal to dump motor oil, or anything other than stormwater, into City of Newton storm drains. So what if there’s a spill? Since our stormwater system connects to our local waterways and not the treatment plant, we can’t let the oil reach the storm drain. Instead, we need to clean it up. To start, use cat litter or another absorbent (even soil will work) to soak up the spill. Once all the oil is absorbed, sweep up the oil-soaked absorbent and place it in the trash. And please service your vehicle to stop the leaking fluid.

Recycle used oil and other automotive fluids at participating service stations. Don’t dump these chemicals down the storm drain or dispose of them in your trash.

Also remember to use a commercial car wash or wash your car on a lawn or other unpaved surface to minimize the amount of dirty, soapy water flowing into the storm drain and eventually into your local waterbody.

Solution to Pollution brochure

Pet waste left in yards, parks, and other outdoor areas washes away with rain or snowmelt into storm sewers and ditches that flow directly into our creeks.

These wastes and the pathogens they contain (bacteria, parasites, and viruses) get into Sand Creek, Mud Creek, Slate Creek, and local ponds. With thousands of dogs and cats in Newton, it can really add up.

I don't walk my dog near a creek or river. How does my dog's waste get there?

When it rains, pet waste and other pollutants (litter, oil, etc.) are carried into the storm drains, through pipes, and into the creek system.

Doesn’t the water go to the treatment plant before it gets to the creek?

Sewage treatment plants only process wastewater from indoor plumbing. Sewage treatment plants do not treat rain water.

Is pet waste in the creek really so bad?

Pet waste is bad for streams for two reasons. First, the bacteria in pet waste can cause illness in humans, if contaminated water comes in contact with an open wound or is ingested.

Second, bacteria require oxygen to live and, as a result, reduce the amount of oxygen in the water that is available for fish. State and federal regulations require the City to maintain a good water quality in Sand Creek.

Other animals such as squirrels, rabbits and birds already use the outdoors as their toilet. Why should I worry about my pet?

The waste from the large concentration of pets in our part of the country cannot be adequately or naturally absorbed into the environment.

Should I pick up the pet waste in my own yard?

Yes, definitely. During a rain storm, this waste can get washed out of your yard, down a street or drainage ditch and find its way into the stormwater system.

In addition, when waste is not removed, it leaves a large quantity of nutrients that can burn out grasses by overfeeding them, creating a spotty-looking yard. Pet waste can also attract rats — reason enough to keep your yard cleared.

Why is it better to put pet waste in the trash?

Disposing of pet waste in the trash removes the pollution source from contact with surface water and contains it in a landfill situation, where discharges are monitored and containment levels are known. Landfills are designed to safely handle substances such as dog waste, cat litter, and dirty diapers.

Pet waste brochure

• Before beginning an outdoor project, locate the nearest storm drains and protect them from debris and other materials.
• Sweep up and properly dispose of construction debris such as concrete and mortar.
• Use hazardous substances like paints, solvents, and cleaners in the smallest amounts possible, and follow the directions on the label. Clean up spills immediately, and dispose of the waste safely. Store substances properly to avoid leaks and spills.
• Purchase and use nontoxic, biodegradable, recycled, and recyclable products whenever possible.
• Clean paint brushes in a sink, not outdoors. Filter and reuse paint thinner when using oil-based paints. Properly dispose of excess paints through a household hazardous waste collection program, or donate unused paint to local organizations.
• Reduce the amount of paved area and increase the amount of vegetated area in your yard. Use native plants in your landscaping to reduce the need for watering during dry periods. Consider directing downspouts away from paved surfaces onto lawns and other measures to increase infiltration and reduce polluted runoff.

• Use pesticides and fertilizers sparingly. When use is necessary, use these chemicals in the recommended amounts. Avoid application if the forecast calls for rain; otherwise, chemicals will be washed into your local stream.
• Select native plants and grasses that are drought- and pest-resistant. Native plants require less water, fertilizer, and pesticides.
• Sweep up yard debris, rather than hosing down areas. Compost or recycle yard waste when possible.
• Don’t overwater your lawn. Water during the cool times of the day, and don’t let water run off into the storm drain.
• Cover piles of dirt and mulch being used in landscaping projects to prevent these pollutants from blowing or washing off your yard and into local waterbodies. Vegetate bare spots in your yard to prevent soil erosion.

• Drain your swimming pool only when a test kit does not detect chlorine levels.
• Whenever possible, drain your pool or spa into the sanitary sewer system.
• Properly store pool and spa chemicals to prevent leaks and spills, preferably in a covered area to avoid exposure to stormwater.