Love summer swimming; hate water pollution

by WilloughbyCouncil
07/11/2011

With a wet summer ahead of us this year, Willoughby City Council is urging all residents to help prevent stormwater pollution at local beaches and waterways by disposing of waste correctly. Laden with contaminants such as fertilisers, pesticides, engine fluids, waste and spilled oil, stormwater is the most common cause of water pollution.

After heavy rain, pollution from stormwater overflows can make swimming unsuitable for up to 24 hours at beaches and at least three days at harbour or estuarine swimming areas. Although grates and pollution traps stop larger litter from entering stormwater, any pollution on the land can still end up in local waterways.

As part of Willoughby City Council’s e-restore program, regular water quality testing is carried out in Willoughby catchment areas to ensure and maintain the health of local waterways.

Willoughby City Council’s tips for healthy waterways are: • Wash your car on a grassed area so detergents and dirt do not run into stormwater drains • Make sure your car is regularly maintained so it does not leak oil or petrol • Sweep up leaves and garden clippings up and start a compost heap or use them in your garden as mulch. • Make sure all litter ends up in a bin • Always sweep your footpath, as hosing carries dirt and other waste into the street drains • Always clean up after your animals, as droppings can end up in waterways following rain • Use organic gardening techniques when possible and use non-toxic alternatives to pesticides • Use native plants in gardens as they require less water and fertilisers • For information about rinsing paint brushes or chemical disposal, contact council on 9777 1000. Please notify Willoughby City Council on 9777 1000 if you witness any contaminants going into stormwater drains. For further information about water quality in your area or to check the dates of upcoming Chemical CleanOuts, visit www.willoughby.nsw.gov.au

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