March showers will definitely bring April flowers. They can also cause polluted water going down the storm drain. It is important to remember not to fertilize, spray herbicides or pesticides if rain is expected within 48 hours of application. Sweep up excess fertilizer on the sidewalk, driveway and roadway to ensure it does not enter the storm drain.

While sprucing up the yard, whether it be mowing, blowing or weed eating, be sure to sweep up the lawn clippings and dispose of them in the green trash can. Do not blow the clippings and dirt into the roadway. This leads to dirt and yard debris entering the storm drain during in the event of rainfall.

Remember, storm water is not treated. What goes down the storm drain eventually makes its way to our local rivers. That means everything that is on our roadways, sidewalks and driveways eventually make its way to the storm drain if we do not implement best management practices with our day-to-day activities.

For questions or additional information, contact Municipal Services at 209-668-5590. Brought to you by the City of Turlock Municipal Services Department.

WATER CONSERVATION TIP #43