Water Quality Month

AUGUST is designated as National Water Quality Month to raise awareness about the importance of water, encourage its protection, and promote conservation of water resources. 

• Purpose:

  The month aims to highlight the vital role water plays in human health, agriculture, the environment, and recreation, and to emphasize the need for clean and accessible water. 
• History:

  The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the United Nations established National Water Quality Month in 2005 to promote awareness and encourage actions to protect the nation’s water sources. 
• Importance:

  Clean water is essential for drinking, sanitation, agriculture, and maintaining healthy ecosystems. 
• Actions:

  During National Water Quality Month, people are encouraged to reflect on ways to keep waterways clean and free of debris, report pollution, and practice sustainable water management practices. 
• Ways to get involved:

  • Report pollution: Use the Report Pollution tool to report any pollution incidents. 
  • Practice sustainable gardening: Use mulch, rain barrels, or rain gardens to capture water runoff. 
  • Reduce stormwater pollutants: Take steps to minimize your contribution to stormwater runoff, such as sweeping your driveway instead of hosing it down. 
  • Properly dispose of chemicals: Dispose of leftover paint, used oil, antifreeze, and medications correctly. 
  • Avoid antibacterial soaps: These can harm marine life. 
  • Wash your car at a car wash: This prevents chemicals from entering storm drains. 
  • Pick up after your pet: Prevents nitrogen pollution in water.