Whether you become involved in the public process or you simply take steps to limit your own water usage in and around your home, you can become a part of the solution.
- Adopt a channel. OC Public Works’s Adopt A Channel Program allows individuals, organizations, and businesses to adopt a portion of an Orange County flood control channel in order to carry out periodic trash cleanups. In doing so, Adopters positively impact our waterways, set examples and raise awareness of the effects of keeping our waterways clean and healthy, and are recognized for their commitment to community stewardship. Become an Adopter today!
- Think about replacing sod and other water-intensive shrubbery with drought-tolerant landscaping. As a result of the drought, many jurisdictions and water agencies actually offer rebates and other incentives to remove natural turf and install rain barrels and other water capture devices. Not only will this save you money up front, but it will also reduce your monthly water bill! Keep in mind that irrigation runoff from your property is prohibited and can result in a fine.
- Limit car washing and power-washing of building exteriors as much as possible. If your vehicle is in need of some TLC, then consider taking it to a certified car wash. If you are on a budget, then wash your car over permeable or unpaved surfaces, allowing any excess water to be absorbed into the soil instead of running into storm drains.
- Dispose of pest waste appropriately. When taking your dog for a walk, make sure that you always have a bag on hand so that when nature calls, you are ready. This will help prevent bacteria and pathogens that can cause illness from getting into our waterways.
- If you have some free time and don’t mind getting your hands a little dirty, many conservancies and foundations host clean up events for local creeks and lagoons. Please see our calendar to learn more about what events are being offered in your area!
- Don’t litter! Trash on our roadways and in our yards has a tendency to make its way to creeks, rivers, and ocean waters during rain events. Even consider carrying a bag with you to collect litter as you take your morning or evening neighborhood stroll.
- Implementation and adaptation of the Water Quality Improvement Plan is an ongoing process and as always, public input is encouraged. Meetings that are open to the public are posted in a timely manner to allow for public involvement. If you are interested, please check out our calendar for upcoming meetings.
- If you observe any discharges of water that you believe may be illicit, then do not hesitate to report it by means of our pollution reporting page.
- And lastly, do what you can to spread the word! Sometimes the most effective strategy is the simplest one. Now that you are a water quality expert, we are relying on your help to educate your coworkers, family, and friends.