Environmental Concerns

Non-Point Source Pollution

Most pollutants in our lakes and water come from several different sources and are called non-point source pollution. The stormwater picks up contaminants such as motor oil, fertilizers, leaves, and garbage as it flows across the ground and pavement.

This non-point source pollution causes most of the pollution in our rivers and lakes. This pollution can kill fish and other aquatic life, create unsafe swimming conditions, and litter our waterways and beaches.

Stormwater Pollution Prevention

What you do on your property affects the water quality in our ponds, rivers, and lakes. The following suggestions can help minimize the impact of stormwater pollution:

  • Avoid or minimize use of chemicals in you garden and lawn as those chemicals can pollute. Pull weeds by hand when possible. When fertilizing, use a fertilizer that contains no phosphorous. (On the fertilizer label is the guaranteed amount of primary nutrients given in a series of three numbers. The middle number should be a 0.)
  • Compost your yard waste and use a mulching mower. The city compost site is open most weekends spring to fall.
  • Do not dump substances such as used oil, household chemicals, yard fertilizer or other wastes onto the pavement or into the storm drains. Take these items to the Dakota County Eco-Site at 3365 South Highway 149 in Eagan.
  • Dry sweep your driveway and walkways instead of hosing them down.
  • Pick up litter and throw all litter in appropriate trashcans. Litter thrown on the ground can end up in our storm drains and from there, to our lakes and rivers.
  • Repair leaks on your vehicles. Vehicle drips and leaks (oil, grease, gasoline, antifreeze, brake fluid) contribute to stormwater pollution.
  • Scoop, bag, and throw pet waste in the garbage. Animal waste contains harmful bacteria and organisms that can wash into our lakes and swimming areas.
  • Wash your car at a commercial car wash, or on the grass. as soap and dirt from washing your car can flow into storm drains. Use a soap that contains no phosphorous.

Consider which suggestions you can implement, and start making a difference in our water quality.

Reporting Pollutant Problems

If you see what appears to be someone illegally dumping anything into the city storm sewer system, or if you have any erosion control concerns, please contact Engineering at 651-554-3210

Additional Information