Home projects can result in runoff pollution

Many of the materials that we use in our home improvement projects have the potential to pollute storm water if not disposed of properly, according to the city of Post Falls.

Materials such as paint, yard debris, sawdust, stucco, drywall, dirt, concrete and chemicals, if washed down a storm drain, can contaminate the Spokane River and beaches.

As a riverside community, Post Falls relies on clean water for its residents, a healthy river, public safety and a desirable environment for wildlife.

When it rains, many of the pollutants that get onto our streets, sidewalks, parking lots and gutters wash down the storm drains and into the river. Unfortunately, storm drains do not filter water or debris, nor are they connected to the wastewater treatment plant, so any pollutant that flows into the storm drain ends up in the river.

Urban runoff pollutants come from leaking cars, household chemicals, building materials pet and yard waste, soil erosion and litter.

Urban runoff pollution is preventable. Post Falls residents are encouraged to work together to create a cleaner community.

Painting tools should never be rinsed in the street or any area that might flow to the street. Oil-based paints and solvents can only be disposed of at a hazardous waste collection site.

It is illegal to deposit debris or dirt within the public right of way without permission of the city. If you must temporarily stockpile soil, locate and cover it with a tarp where it cannot be tracked or washed onto the street.

Keep trash and other debris contained so that wind cannot blow it off of the property.

Building materials such as sawdust, dirt, grout, mortar, gypsum compound or drywall mud, plaster or stucco and concrete can't be placed upon or washed into swales, streets, gutters or storm drains.

If an accidental spill of any liquid building material or other hazardous waste occurs, absorbents or kitty litter must be applied immediately to prevent the spill from entering a storm drain.

Once the spill has been contained, contact your trash disposal company or Panhandle Health District for instructions on how to dispose of it.

The Post Falls Water Division can be reached at 777-9857.