Thurston County Storm and Surface Water Utility

Easy Ways to Reduce Stormwater Pollution

Maintain Your Neighborhood Stormwater Facilities

If your neighborhood contains stormwater facilities, remove litter and debris from catch basin lids, insure that pipes are clear of obstructions, and remove excess vegetation from stormwater pond areas.

 What you can do to reduce pollution

• Scoop dog poop and put it in the trash.
• Drive less - whenever possible, ride a bike, carpool or take the bus.
• Sweep driveways and sidewalks instead of hosing them off.
• Take cars to car washes that use recycled water, or wash cars on lawns or gravel.
• Preserve native vegetation near your home, especially near a stream or shoreline.
• Use fertilizers, pesticides and herbicides sparingly, or try non-toxic alternatives.
• Inspect septic systems on a regular basis and maintain as needed.
• Create a rain garden on your property (PDF)
• Don't pour anything down a storm drain.
• Exercise common sense lawn care.

Where to Safely Dispose of Household Hazardous Waste

• Take products that say CAUTION, WARNING, or DANGER to Thurston County's HazoHouse. Service is free for residents.
• What to do with leftover paint.

News Articles

• Are Rain Gardens Mini Toxic Cleanup Sites? [The Sightline Institute]

Contact Us

 Staff contact: Chris Maun: (360) 754-3355 ext. 6377. E-mail: maunc@co.thurston.wa.us