[Updated October 27, 2022]
Our beautiful San Mateo County is lucky to have access to water resources such as the San Francisco Bay and the Pacific Ocean. However, the County is currently experiencing severe drought according to the US Drought Monitor, and the State Water Control Board recently told urban water agencies across California to utilize water restrictions to prepare for decreased supply. In light of this news, it is more important than ever to conserve and protect our water resources.
Safe and clean water is necessary for our daily lives, from showering to drinking to supporting the wellbeing of humans and wildlife alike. After all, water is at the heart of everything we do!
In many cases, water conservation and stormwater pollution prevention go hand in hand. When we capture rainwater or reduce the amount of water we use in our gardens, we are also reducing the amount of run-off that can carry pollutants (such as pesticides, pet waste, motor oil, and more) into our storm drain system.
Here are a few ways you can save water while simultaneously keeping our waterways clean!
Early bird gets the rainy season worm
Consider implementing a rain catchment system on your property. This will allow you to conserve water AND utilize water that would otherwise make its way into our storm drains, picking up pollutants on the way. Two worms, one bird!
- Dig into making a rain garden: Rain gardens are landscaped areas designed to capture and filter rainwater while irrigating native and drought-tolerant plants. You may even qualify for a $300 rain garden rebate when replacing your water-guzzling lawn!
- Set up a rain barrel: Rain barrels are a simple way of helping out the environment, your plants, and your budget. Instead of letting rain water run off your roof into the storm drain, rain barrels capture that rainwater to use in your garden in drier months. Learn more about rain barrels and our rebate program here.
Go green with a drought-tolerant garden
Having a beautiful flourishing yard doesn’t require a whole lot of water or harmful products like pesticides and fertilizers. By trying out these natural yard and garden management strategies, you can save water (and money!) while keeping our waterways healthy and happy.
- Go native: Less water? No problem! Native California plants are naturally more resilient to our current drought conditions. Plus, natives require less chemical pesticides which not only makes yard care much easier, but also less harmful to our waters. Check out this article for more information and help on getting started on your own native plant oasis.
- Put compost to work: Compost is amazing at boosting your soil’s capacity to retain water, but also gives your garden a nutritious pick-me-up. By promoting soil and plant health, compost also reduces the need for harsh fertilizers that often harm our waterways. For more lawn and garden tips, check out this page.
Clean streets, clean streams
One of the easiest things we can do is make sure our driveways and walkways are clean from leftover contaminants. Aside from being an eyesore, these contaminants harm our waterways and wildlife.
- Driveway cleaning: A hose may seem like an easy way to clear off the driveway of debris and oil spills from the car, but this runoff can manifest as storm drain clogs and pollution to aquatic wildlife. For a safer and more water-wise cleanup, use kitty litter to absorb any oil spills and use a broom to sweep away any leaves or rubble.
- Car washing: The best way to keep your ride sparkling is to bring it over to a commercial car wash instead of hosing it down on your property. The pros are able to collect, filter, and reuse runoff water instead of letting it head for the storm drain.
Stay in the know
Stay updated on current water shortages with the Bay Area Drought Map & Tracker. Check in with your local water district for updates regarding any water use restrictions that may apply to you and your neighbors. The County of San Mateo Office of Sustainability webpage lets you enter your zipcode to learn more about your local water agency’s programs, while also offering resources to help you save water in the home!
Share this info along with your favorite water conservation tips with friends and family to help ensure San Mateo County has clean, beautiful waters for years to come!
