FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: May 25, 2022
MEDIA CONTACTS: Gordon Tepper, Rebecca Cheng and Michael Anderson | (516) 869-7794
North Hempstead Encourages Residents to Be Mindful of Stormwater Pollution
North Hempstead, NY – The Town of North Hempstead reminds residents to be aware of stormwater pollution and to learn ways they can do their part to prevent and reduce it.
Stormwater is the result of the water from rain or melting snow that flows into drainage infrastructure, like storm drains and catch basins. This untreated water does not absorb into the ground, but instead migrates into our local waterways and streams. Untreated stormwater can carry debris and pollutants which can lead to the destruction of aquatic life and habitats and even impact the health of our drinking water.
Residential Stormwater Tips Include:
• Never dump anything into stormwater drains. Even hosing off your driveway can add contaminants and soil into the stormwater drains.
• Pet waste is one of the biggest contributors to stormwater pollution. Pet waste that is not properly disposed of can wash into stormwater drains or bodies of water and degrade water quality. This can also bring bacteria and pathogens into our water supply, impacting our health and the health of our environment.
• Dispose of household hazardous waste such as paints and fertilizers at one of the Town’s S.T.O.P. (Stop Throwing Out Pollutant) events. The next S.T.O.P. event will be held at Westbury High School on Saturday, June 25
• Did you know that the detergent from washing your car can lead to algae bloom, killing fish and other marine life in our waterways? Safe alternatives include washing your car on your lawn to prevent runoff or taking it to a car wash where water is reclaimed or treated.
• Minimize the use of synthetic pesticides and fertilizers whenever possible. Be sure to only apply them when there is no forecast for rain for a few days. Also follow the instructions on the packages to prevent excess usage.
• Never litter! All man-made garbage, especially cigarette butts, creates a risk to wildlife and leaches chemicals into the environment. Do not sweep garbage into storm drains as it also blocks the drains and can create flood risks.
• Consider making a rain garden on your property, so that stormwater can filter slowly into the ground instead of rushing into the street. Rain gardens also provide food and habitat for wildlife and help recharge and purify our drinking water supplies. The Town is currently offering rebates for residents who replace lawns and existing green spaces with native plant gardens. For more information on the program visit: www.northhempsteadny.gov/np