Everyone contributes to the water quality in Scott County streams, rivers and lakes. Below are tips for being part of the solution to pollution!
Don’t just landscape, Rainscape!
Implement Urban Conservation Landscaping Practices like rain gardens, bioswales, permeable paving, soil quality restoration and native landscaping. These practices infiltrate rain water runoff from lawns, roofs, driveways and other impervious surfaces, filtering out pollutants and restoring natural hydrology. They can also solve drainage issues, lessen mowing and maintenance, beautify property and attract birds and butterflies. Contact Clare Kerofsky, 563.391.1403 ext. 3, clare.kerofsky@ia.nacdnet.net, to receive free technical assistance on the placement, design and construction of these practices and to find out how to get funding assistance as well.
Pick Up After Pets
Pick up after pets in your yard and when at parks and other public areas. Pet waste washes off the land into storm drains, polluting local streams, lakes and rivers. Pet waste is a contributor to high levels of bacteria in Duck Creek. This can be a human health concern.
Maintain and Update Septic Systems
A septic system that is out of date, malfunctioning or in need of maintenance can deposit human waste into our streams, lakes and rivers. For detailed information on updating, repairing or maintaining your septic system, click on the below link from the Scott County Health Department:
http://www.scottcountyiowa.com/health/water_OWTS_maintenance.php
Properly Dispose of Yard Waste
Dumping yard waste in ravines or streams causes water quality problems. The excess nutrients in yard waste pollutes our waterways and competes with aquatic life for dissolved oxygen. Participate in your community’s yard waste program and purchase bags and stickers for pick up or start a compost pile and turn your yard waste and kitchen remains into rich organic matter for your garden.
Properly Dispose of Prescription Medication
Don’t flush prescription medications down the toilet. The United States Geological Survey found 80% of watersheds sampled nationally contained at least one type of pharmaceutical chemical, with half of streams containing seven or more! Many Pharmacies will take unwanted prescription medications. Residents of Scott County can dispose of pharmaceuticals at the Scott County Landfill or the Scott County Area Recycling Center, Monday-Friday, 7:30am-4:00pm. For detailed information, click on the below link from the Waste Commission of Scott County:
http://wastecom.com/Content/Residential/Pharmaceuticals-and-Medications.aspx
Only Rain Down The Drain
Paints and other household cleaners and chemicals disposed in storm drains flow directly into local waterways. Residents of Scott County can dispose of oils, paints, household cleaners, and other hazardous materials at the Scott County Landfill or the Scott County Recycling Center FREE OF CHARGE by appointment. Residents call 563.381.1300 to make an appointment.
Watershed Friendly Lawn Care
A large percentage of the chemicals applied to lawns, landscapes and gardens end up in our waterways. Try alternative methods such as compost or organic treatments. Implement native lawns and landscapes that do not require chemicals. Read labels to ensure proper application, apply sparingly and avoid areas near waterways.
Donate Money or Time
The Partners of Scott County Watersheds is a 501(c) 3 not for profit organization. Donations are accepted in the form of money, in-kind services, supplies and time. If you would like to donate please make checks out to: PSCW-SWCD and send to: 8370 Hillandale Road, Davenport, Iowa, 52806. Donations fund projects, programs, supplies and coordinator salary. All donations are tax-deductible. To find out about volunteer opportunities, contact the coordinator, clare.kerofsky@ia.nacdnet.net, 563.391.1403 ext. 3.
