
Respect Our Waters
Did you know that the actions you take every day have a huge impact on the quality of our lakes, rivers and drinking water?
Take some tips from Sparkles the Water Spaniel. Remember, every time it rains, anything left on a sidewalk, lawn or street ends up in storm sewers, which flow directly into our rivers and Lake Michigan – the source of the water you drink every day. Here's how you can help keep our waters clean and healthy:
| Pick up pet waste | Leave your grass clippings on the lawn | Use lawn fertilizers and chemicals sparingly and only when needed | Inspect your vehicle to make sure it's not leaking oil or other fluids |
Want to go an extra mile to help keep our waters clean?
- Wash your car at a car wash or on the lawn instead of the driveway.
- Plant trees or a rain garden.
- Make sure that downspouts empty into rain barrels, the yard or garden, instead of on pavement.
- Like the Respect Our Waters on Facebook to learn more and be notified about community events where you can receive free pet waste bags and sign up for your chance to win rain barrels!
Remember, Sparkles says, “Cleaner water is a matter of proper training!”
To learn more about keeping area rivers and Lake Michigan clean, or to see a schedule of events in your community, visit:




