Tip of the Week: What about Storm Water Management?

As a result of Superstorm Sandy this past year, many Long Islanders have been faced with challenges for which they hadn’t prepared.  But Long Island Builders Institute, LIBI, a non-profit organization, is here to help by providing you with access to local industry professionals that understand exactly what you are going through.       

Stay in touch with the latest tips provided by LIBI right here on Patch.  Get the advice you need in order to move forward in any project, both large and small.

In this week’s “Tip of the week” we will be discussing storm water management, its causes, dangers, and helpful ways to prevent it.

• Storm water runs directly into our open water and groundwater systems. Contaminants found in our groundwater are picked up on roads, public parks, private homes, parking lots, etc. These pollutants flow directly into our drinking water and other natural water sources around Long Island. 

• Some of the pollutants found in storm water are, silt/sediment, pathogens, oil/grease, metals, debris, and litter, which can all be every dangerous to one’s health.

• In order to reduce storm water runoff pollution, be sure to use fertilizers sparingly.  Sweep up driveways, sidewalks, and gutters.  Also, try to use pesticides low in toxins.

• Take your car to the car wash instead of washing it in the driveway at home, as strange as that seems it helps prevent pollution.  Always check your car for leaks, and don’t forget to recycle your motor oil.

Learn more helpful tips at Superstorm Resource Expo, presented by LIBI, on Wednesday March 20th, 2013 at the Hyatt Regency Long Island in Hauppauge.  For more information regarding the show, visit http://www.libi.org or “Superstorm Resource Expo” at Facebook.com. 

Sources:

1. http://www.nassaucountyny.gov/agencies/DPW/stormwater.html
2. EPA United States Environmental Protection Agency