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Conservation Tips

How can I improve the water quality at Lake Accotink?

Lawn Care

• Use native species that require less water, fertilizer, and pesticide
• Keep leaves and grass clippings our of the gutters and paved areas
• Water only when grass looks drake, starts to roll, or footprints stay flat
• Use soaker hoses
• Aim sprinklers away from paved surfaces
• Use a broom to clean surfaces instead of a hose
• Mulch around trees and plantings

Chemical Care

• Never apply before an expected rain
• Follow directions carefully and read cautions
• Use natural, slow-release fertilizers, low toxicity pest control, water-based products
• Sweep up spills
• Only use diazinon when absolutely necessary
• Don’t pour anything down storm drains, sewers, manholes, or household drains

Car Care

• Repair oil, transmission, gas, or antifreeze leaks as soon as possible
• Don’t wash your car too often
• When washing cars use little soap and wash on a grassy area
• Recycle use liquids such as oil or antifreeze, or wrap them up well for proper disposal

Community Care

• Support and follow ordinances that require limitation of soil erosion from construction sites
• Encourage practices that limit pollution from storm water runoff such as detention ponds
• Tell public officials about your concerns and interests in helping clean up waters by emphasizing their economic and recreational values
• Support preservation of wetlands, waterways, and/or environmental corridors
• Participate in events or groups that support conservation

Other Care

• Pick up pet wastes and dispose in trash—never down a storm drain or sewer—they contain bacteria and nutrients that could reach streams and lakes
• Maintain and repair septic systems; schedule licensed pumping every 2-3 years
• Use the least toxic chemicals possible for any household work and the least amount
• Direct roof down spouts away from foundations and driveways to areas where the ground can soak up the water