Pollution Prevention & Good Housekeeping for Homeowners

Water Quality

As water from rain or melting snow either seeps into the ground or "runs off" to lower areas, it makes its way into streams, lakes, and other water bodies. While traveling through the watershed the water can pick up and carry many substances that pollute water. This water comes from farms, yards, parking lots, construction sites, and roadways.

Examples of Common Stormwater Pollutants

• Fertilizers, pesticides, and herbicides from gardens and homes
• Failing septic systems
• Pet wastes
• Prescription medications
• Hazardous wastes
• Oils, grease, and coolants from vehicles
• Salts
• Trace metals
• Grass clippings, leave and other organic matter placed into ditches and streams
• Litter
• Harsh detergents and other chemicals from vehicle washing or industrial cleaning
• Soil from construction sites and other bare ground
• Accidental spills, leaky storage containers, and other chemicals that end up on the ground

Quick Tips to Protect Water Quality

• Properly dispose of yard waste - the City provides this service
• Routinely check and maintain your septic system
• Properly dispose of paints and other household hazardous wastes
• Wash your car over a permeable surface
• Report construction site violations 
• Seed and straw bare spots in your yard
• Direct downspouts away from hard surface
• Scoop the poop- collect your pet's waste
• Properly dispose of prescription medications - Drug Take-Back Box (PDF) located at the police department

Tennessee Smart Yard

Is Your Yard a Tennessee Smart Yard?

Do you want a yard that is in tune with the local environment? Do you want to increase your property value? You don't have to be an expert gardener or landscaper to create a Tennessee Smart Yard. Learn why a "Smart Yard" is right for you and our environment.

• Path to Certification
• Native Plant Database
• Virtual Classes (Pandemic Friendly)
• Access to UT Extension resources
• Register your Rain Garden