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"Takin’ It To The Streets" is
not just a rock classic. It also describes an important
part of the battle to improve water quality in the
Malibu Creek watershed. The “enemy” in this case
is urban runoff—the excess water that flows from
our urban landscapes and hardscapes, and finds its
way into storm drains, creeks and ultimately the
ocean.
What makes urban runoff
a bad thing? It’s a sign that water is being wasted.
A garden hose might be left on, there may be too
much water sprayed onto a garden, or sprinkler heads
could be broken or poorly aimed.
Water is an excellent solvent
and readily picks up whatever it encounters. There
are fertilizers and pesticides from lawns and gardens.
Oil drippings, residuals of tire wear, and deposits
of airborne material are taken from driveways and
roads. Along the curb, runoff picks up grass clippings,
leaves, and animal droppings. Even inside the storm
drain, there’s residue from past flows and decaying
vegetation.
By the time it empties into
the Malibu Creek system, what once was clear, clean
water can carry a nasty mix of materials and contaminants.
Most urban runoff during warm-weather months starts
as irrigation.
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Check to be certain
your irrigation system is in good working condition.
Make sure sprinkler heads are properly aimed,
with the water directed away from concrete surfaces.
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Adjust the timing of
sprinklers to match the weather. When the landscape
is saturated, cut back on irrigation. Hit the
off button after it rains. If water is draining
from your property after the sprinkler cycle,
set a shorter watering period.
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Don’t let the hose run
when washing your car. Use a "trigger" hose
fitting or go to a commercial car wash.
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Keep grass clippings
and leaves away from the street and gutter. Collect
these materials and dispose of them in your green
waste barrel. Even better, compost garden clippings.
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Take great care in applying
fertilizers and pest controls.
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Use only as directed
and be careful to avoid using too much.
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Pick up after your pet
and dispose of their waste properly.
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If you notice runoff
from a nearby property, offer a friendly suggestion
for your neighbor to check their irrigation system
for leaks or broken sprinkler heads. They’ll
benefit by saving money and water.
We all are "warriors" in
the battle against urban runoff. Everyone has
an important role in keeping excess water from "Takin’ it
to the streets.”
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