Stormwater runoff, a critical pollutant carrier, generally discharges into the surface water of lakes and canals in Lake County. These pollutants consist of oil, heavy metals, pesticides, herbicides, and fertilizers originating from lawns, vehicles, and septic tanks. The quality of our environment and the recreation value of all lakes and rivers decreased over the years, which has resulted in the federal and state government regulations to reduce and possibly eliminate some of the adverse environmental impacts of pollutants in our daily lives.
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has delegated responsibility to the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) to implement the National Pollutant Discharge and Elimination System (NPDES) of the Clean Water Act. The NPDES will regulate local point source and non-point source discharges of stormwater runoff into surface water. All municipalities and counties must obtain a NPDES permit from DEP on or before 2004, and develop/implement a stormwater management program that includes the best management practices (BMP’s) with measurable goals for the six minimum control measures (listed below).
The City of Eustis currently has an active stormwater management program with restrictive rules on development runoff control and pollution prevention. The city also provides regular street sweeping and a stormwater retrofit program funded through its existing stormwater utility fees.
Information about the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) can be found at https://www.epa.gov/npdes.
The Water Quality Sampling Database is designed to allow you to search for information by watershed, county and water body and to determine levels of dissolved oxygen, pH and chemicals in the water’s makeup. This site is updated as information is gathered in the field and can be found at http://www.lake.wateratlas.usf.edu/
Recycle or properly dispose of household products that contain chemicals, such as insecticides, pesticides, paint, solvents, used motor oil and other auto fluids. Don't pour them onto the ground or into storm drains.
Don't overwater your lawn. Consider using a soaker hose instead of a sprinkler.
Use pesticides and fertilizers sparingly and in recommended amounts. Use organic mulch or safer pest control methods when possible.
Compost or mulch yard waste. Don't leave it in the street or sweep it into storm drains or streams.
Have your septic system pumped every 3 to 5 years.
Avoid pouring medication or hazardous waste into your drains.
Maintain a buffer between your yard and the water’s edge. Keep native aquatic plants in place.
Repair vehicle leaks and dispose of used auto fluids and batteries at designated drop-off or recycling locations.
When walking your pet, remember to pick up the waste and dispose of it properly. Flushing pet waste is the best disposal method.
Use a commercial car wash that treats or recycles its wastewater, or wash your car on your yard so the water infiltrates into the ground.
Florida Yards & Neighborhoods - Protecting Florida's Natural Resources Through Environmentally Friendly Landscaping and Lawn Care