What you can do now to help Puget Sound

Individuals, families and businesses can play a role in reducing stormwater runoff.

Consider permeable materials when paving for a new patio or driveway.

They'll soak up rainwater that would otherwise turn into stormwater runoff.

Plant rain gardens and use rain barrels to reduce runoff from your property.

Annual stormwater runoff from a 1,200 square-foot roof in South Sound can total more than 38,000 gallons. Rain garden workshops will be offered from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m., March 6, in Olympia, April 3 in Tumwater and April 17 in Lacey. For specific location details and to register, call the Native Plant Salvage Project at 360-754-3588, ext. 110.

Wash your car on the lawn instead of the driveway to reduce runoff.

Better yet, use a car wash that recycles the water.

Reduce the use of chemical fertilizers and pesticides on your lawn and garden.

Studies by the United States Geological Survey of urban streams in the Puget Sound region detected 23 different pesticides during rainstorms, five at levels that can harm aquatic life.

Pick up and properly dispose of pet waste.

The excrement from one bowel movement by a dog contains enough bacteria to halt the harvest on 15 acres of commercial shellfish beds.

Fix fluid leaks from your automobile immediately and avoid unnecessary, short car trips.

Support alternative forms of transportation by walking, bicycling and riding the bus. Why? Heavy metals from wear and tear on brake pads and tires, along with oil leaks and vehicle exhaust, are a major contributor of pollution in stormwater.

Join in community stormwater projects.

Some examples: Stream Team habitat restoration work parties, maintenance of community stormwater ponds, creation of pesticide-free neighborhoods and other efforts by local governments, civic groups and environmental groups.

Be an informed citizen.

Here are some helpful Web sites and phone numbers to learn more about the environmental and health problems linked to stormwater runoff and ways to prevent them:

• Puget Sound Partnership: www.psp.wa.gov

• People for Puget Sound: www.pugetsound.org, or the Olympia office at 360-754-9177.

• State Department of Ecology: www.ecy.wa.gov.

• Stream Team: 360-753-8454.

John Dodge/The Olympian