Residential prevention practices for bacteria
Residential pollution prevention methods effective for controlling or reducing bacteria. Source: modified from the Center for Watershed Protection.
Link to this table
| Practice | Relative effectiveness | Method | Image1 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Litter and Animal Waste Control | High | Properly dispose of pet waste and litter in a timely manner and according to local ordinance requirements. |  |
| Yard Waste Management | Low | Prevent yard waste from entering storm sewer systems and water bodies by either composting or using curbside pickup services and avoiding accumulation of yard waste on impervious surfaces; keep grass clippings and leaves out of the street. |  |
| Septic Tank Maintenance | High | ||
| Exposed Soil Repair | Low | Use native vegetation or grass to cover and stabilize exposed soil on lawns to prevent sediment wash off. |  |
| Native Landscaping | Low | Reduce turf areas by planting native species to reduce and filter pollutant-laden runoff and prevent the spread of invasive, non-native plant species into the storm sewer system. |  |
| Healthy Lawns | Low | Maintain thick grass planted in organic-rich soil to a height of at least 3 inches to prevent soil erosion, filter stormwater contaminants, and absorb airborne pollutants; limit or eliminate chemical use and water and repair lawn as needed |  |
| Proper lawn irrigation and watering2 | Medium-high | Over-watering lawns has been shown to be an important source of bacteria to streets and sidewalks. Implement appropriate watering practices to avoid runoff from pervious surfaces where animals (e.g. birds, mammals) are active. |  |
1 Photo credits
2For tips on proper watering, see this page
3Image courtesy Chesapeake Lawn Service