Stormwater drains are JUST for rain!!!

Everything that enters stormwater drains ends up untreated in our rivers, lakes, estuaries and the ocean. Pollutants in stormwater are having a disastrous impact on all aquatic life, not only harming fish, plants and wildlife, but reducing water quality for humans.

What can happen?

Birds and fish can become entangled in rubbish

Algal blooms can result from a build up in nutrients found in animal waste and in chemical products used by households and businesses

Oil slicks can occur when oils are poured down drains or wash from the streets into the gutter

How can you help?

• Don’t tip paint, thinners, flea rinses, herbicides, pesticides, oils or other chemicals down the drain
• Bin your rubbish securely
• Pick up your dogs waste and put it in a bin or worm farm. It’s full of nutrients that can feed algal blooms.
• Sweep up grass clippings, leaves, sand and other material and put in a bin or compost
• Keep garden weeds away from drains. They may end up in rivers or wetlands as invasive weeds.
• Wash your car on the lawn to keep detergents out of the stormwater drainage system
• Use the right fertiliser at the right time (Fertilise Wise) and never over-water.
• Backwash your pools into a soakwell, not into a roadside drain
• Don’t feed bread to waterbirds
• Get involved with your local catchment or friends group