Stormwater runoff is the primary contributor towards water pollution, and the only way it can be prevented is through human intervention. Let's face it, we (humans) are responsible for how runoff occurs within our cities and communities. Through urban development and earth transforming actions, we have reduced the area that rain and snowmelt used to infiltrate and created a water runoff system that interacts directly with pollutants, such as oil on our streets, manure from our livestock operations, and pesticides from our agriculture industries.
So What Can We Do About It?
We can educate ourselves, our youth, our neighbors, and our communities about stormwater pollution. By raising awareness of our impact on water quality of local streams, rivers, and lakes, we can prevent pollution and preserve the clean waters we need to live in the Yakima Valley. Below you will find teaching materials that can be used in your schools or at home to learn more about stormwater and pollution prevention.