Northern Virginia

Clean Water Partners

Fairfax County | Prince William County | Arlington County | Loudoun County | Stafford County | Fairfax Water | City of Alexandria | Loudoun Water |
City of Fairfax | Town of Herndon | Town of Leesburg | City of Falls Church | Town of Vienna | Town of Dumfries | Northern Virginia Regional Commission |
Virginia Department of Environmental Quality - Coastal Zone Management Program
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Only Rain Down the Storm Drain!

Photo of Storm DrainDID YOU KNOW...polluted stormwater is the number one cause of unhealthy water in the streams and rivers throughout Northern Virginia?

Waterways are where we play, relax, enjoy wildlife, and even get our drinking water. However, their quality is threatened by common materials that get carried to them with every rain. Pet waste, motor oil, and fertilizer are the most common pollutants found in our waterways.

Fortunately, the health of the region's waterways can be improved by working together to reduce the amount of polluted stormwater reaching our treasured waterways for today and future generations.

Tip of the Month - Potomac River-Friendly Lawn Care Techniques!

The overuse of fertilizers, herbicides, and pesticides on lawns and gardens can cause algae growth in local streams and the Chesapeake Bay, and some chemicals can even kill aquatic life. Although the spring weather invites yard work, fertilizing in the fall actually promotes healthier and deeper root growth for your grass. Follow the package directions before you apply any chemical lawn care product. Keep the green in your pocket and out of our shared waterways!  

Instead of using a lot of chemicals on your yard, here are a couple of Potomac River-friendly options to consider:

  • Did you know that fertilizing your lawn in the fall is better for the grass and promotes deeper root growth?
  • Grasscycling is a fast and easy way to a great looking lawn. Leave grass clippings on your lawn to provide nutrients, instead of fertilizing.
  • Composting your yard waste is a great way to create nutrient-rich soil for your gardens.
  • Get a little exercise by manually pulling weeds instead of applying pesticides and herbicides.
  • Most importantly, read and follow packaging direction before applying any chemical lawn care products.

Volunteers In Action
There are hundreds of committed Northern Virginians already working toward improving the environment. Read their stories, get inspired, and get involved!

Other Efforts
The Northern Virginia Clean Water Partners are not alone in their goal of improving the region's water quality. Learn more about other organizations that are also promoting pollution control.

This site is maintained by the Northern Virginia Regional Commission.

To report a problem with the website, please contact info@novaregion.org or 703-642-0700