Weld County Residents

Each one of us in Weld County has the opportunity to make a big difference in protecting the water supply which will help ensure a higher quality of life today and for years to come.

Many common stormwater pollutants are located right outside your home. Some simple, smart choices will help prevent these pollutants from draining into our water supply while ensuring a healthier home and saving you money.

Weld County residents have the benefit of using the Weld County Household Hazardous Waste (HHW) program for disposing of wastes such as old paint, used oil, batteries and florescent light bulbs. Hazardous wastes need proper disposal so they do not contaminate stormwater on the way to the landfill. Visit the Weld County HHW website for a complete list of wastes accepted by the facility.

Ways You Can Prevent Stormwater Pollution From Home :

Pick up after your pet

Dog running on grass

Bacteria naturally exists in our local waterways, but when concentrations become too high, it can threaten human and animal health. Contrary to popular belief, dog waste is not a good fertilizer due to its high acidity. It can harm your lawn and also creates an unnecessary bacterial hazard. Simply pick up your pet waste and throw it in the trash where it won't get washed away into with the stormwater.

Read the labels on your fertilizer and herbicide

Herbicide Sprayer

Make sure to apply the manufacturer’s recommended amount of fertilizer or herbicide; you may find you need less than expected. Also, try not to apply fertilizers or herbicides before a big storm since they will get washed away by the stormwater. The nutrients in fertilizer, especially nitrogen and phosphorus, can turn ponds and streams bright green with algae and harm the aquatic life below. Properly applying these products will help prevent unwanted nutrients from getting into the water and will also keep some extra money in your pocket.

When maintaining your vehicle at home

Oil draining out of car

Many homeowners choose to service their vehicles at home, which is an excellent way to reduce maintenance costs and ensure reliable performance of your vehicle. However, fluids such as motor oil, brake fluid, steering fluid, transmission fluid, and antifreeze can contaminate stormwater if spilled or improperly stored. Keep these fluids in a storage shed or garage, and take advantage of local recycling facilities.

Consider using a commercial car wash

Washing car

Soaps, detergents, heavy metals and chemical residues frequently enter storm drainage systems from the simple act of washing vehicles at home. If possible, try washing vehicles over gravel or grass, and turn the water off while not in use. Commercial car washes are a great alternative because they collect the wash water and send it to a water treatment facility.

Properly dispose of household hazardous waste

Cleaning Windows

Many household products are considered hazardous and should be disposed of properly. Some of these products include household cleaners, flammable liquids, pesticides, herbicides, batteries, vehicle fluids, fluorescent light bulbs, paints and stains. Weld County offers Household Hazardous Waste (HHW) Facilities to help residents easily dispose of these products. More information on Household Hazardous Waste.

Have your septic system checked

Septic tank being pumped

Inspect your septic system at least every three years, and have it pumped as necessary. Be conscious of what materials are being flushed into your system, as some may affect the bacteriological processes that are necessary for septic systems to function properly. Leaking septic tanks are a source of stormwater pollution, potentially carrying unwanted nutrients and pathogens to local waterways. More information on Weld County’s septic system program.