How USAFA
residents can help reduce water pollution
Stormwater
is generated when there is precipitation that falls to the ground
and can infiltrate or can become surface runoff. This water can
become contaminated with pollutants (i.e. chemicals, pathogens,
sediment) that it comes in contact with and can impact streams,
lakes, and groundwater. Improving and ensuring water quality by
eliminating pollutants that could be exposed to stormwater runoff
is everyone’s responsibility. The 10th Civil Engineer Squadron has
asked residents on base to help reduce water pollution by following
these steps:
·
Lawn Maintenance -- Minimize application of fertilizer, pesticide
or fungicide, which could be transported into stormwater sewer
systems.
·
Municipal Trash -- Dispose of trash into designated waste
containers with a secure lid. Pick up and dispose of municipal
trash whenever you can, whether on or off base. Recycle materials
at your homes and workplaces. Recycling containers are available
near the Base Exchange for cardboard, paper, aluminum, glass and
plastic.
·
Household Hazardous Waste -- The Academy’s Hazardous Waste Facility
will accept off-base generated used vehicle oil and useable
household materials such as paints, cleaners and antifreeze from
government ID cardholders. The facility is located at Building 8125
and is open Wednesdays and Thursdays from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. For
disposal questions, call 333-3852 during these hours. El Paso
County also operates a household hazardous waste drop-off facility
at 3255 Akers Drive in Colorado Springs.
·
Car Washing/ Maintenance -- Don't wash or maintain your car at
home; take it to the Academy auto hobby shop or off base.
Fund-raising car washes should be approved by the 10th CES' Water
Quality Manager.
·
Mission and Service Support Activities -- Various materials,
including oils, lubricants and cleaners can impact receiving water
quality if left exposed to stormwater. Use every reasonable
precaution when performing day-to-day work duties to eliminate
pollutants released into the environment which may come into
contact with storm water.
·
Educating Future Generations -- Talk to your children about
eliminating pollutants that could be exposed to stormwater and its
benefits to the environment.
For additional information, call
the Dan Follett at 333-8367.