Join Fairfax Water in celebrating "Source Water Protection Week" during the week of Sept. 24-Oct. 2, 2023. Throughout the week, we will be raising awareness about the importance of caring for our precious drinking water sources.
Visit our Source Water Protection website to learn more!
Why Source Water Protection Week?
The best way to ensure we have high-quality drinking water at the tap is to protect our precious water sources. Keeping our rivers, lakes, and streams free from pollution makes it easier and less expensive to keep water safe and healthy.
What You Can Do to Celebrate Source Water Protection Week
For Customers:
- Manage household hazardous waste properly (cleaners, paints, vehicle fluids, fertilizers, pesticides, etc.) - Only purchase what you need. Donate unused portions to friends or community organizations. Recycle leftovers when possible. To find recycling/disposal locations visit www.earth911.com or call 1-800-CLEANUP.
- Avoid dumping – Never put anything down the sink, toilet or storm drain as it can end up in drinking water sources. Dispose of cleaners, medicines, oil/grease, etc. properly.
- Clean up – Pick up after yourself and your pets. Use trash receptacles and recycle whenever possible. Pet waste can enter storm drains and spread bacteria.
- Use alternative products – Avoid using products that may contain harmful materials such as perfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS); use cast iron or stainless-steel pots and pans instead of non-stick pots and pans.
- Find your source - Identify your source of water and check where you live and work relative to source water areas. An example tool that can be used to find this information in the U.S. is DWMAPS.
- Limit use of fertilizers and pesticides – Reduce the number of materials used on your lawn or consider natural alternatives.
- Participate in volunteer activities - Attend events such as removing invasive plants and replanting natives, stormwater drain stenciling, rain barrel workshops, litter cleanups, etc. Watershed groups are often familiar with upcoming local events.
- If you see something, say something - Report any spills, illegal dumping, or suspicious activity to authorities.
For Businesses:
- Report spills immediately to proper authorities.
- Follow regulations and permit requirements applicable to your business.
- Demonstrate your business’s commitment to environmental stewardship by following industry environmental best practices.
- Join your Local Emergency Planning Committee (LEPC) to form partnerships and increase resources for hazardous materials preparedness.
- Develop plans and procedures to respond to emergency events such as spills, extreme weather, etc.
- Train employees on emergency response plans and procedures, spill prevention, and environmental best practices.
- Properly store and secure chemicals, cleaners, oils/fuels, and other potentially hazardous materials. Inspect the systems regularly, including secondary containment, and cap or reroute floor drains where needed.
- Identify your local water utility and check your location(s) relative to source water areas. An example tool that can be used to find this information in the U.S. is DWMAPS.
- Host a company volunteer day and/or encourage employees to participate in volunteer opportunities for watershed protection.