8
To advertise, please call www.kidscoop.com © Vicki Whiting February 2021
When it rains or snows, most of that
water seeps into the ground. But what if
the ground is covered with a paved
surface like a sidewalk or parking lot?
In that case, the water flows into gutters
or storm drains.
Water picks up pollutants as it runs
through city streets, gutters and storm
drains. These pollutants can make water
in our creeks unsafe for humans, plants
and animals. This pollution is called
non-point source pollution.
Pet waste on
streets and
sidewalks
can end up
in storm
drains.
Gross!
Soapy water
from car
washing
travels to
storm drains.
Fertilizer,
pesticides
and other
garden
chemicals
can wash
into storm
water.
When it
rains, oil and
gas that has
dripped from
cars washes
into storm
drains.
Paint enters
drains when
brushes are
cleaned
outside.
Trash in
gutters and
sidewalks.
A.
B.
C.
D.
E.
F.
Purchase household
detergents low in
phosphorous.
Reduce run-off by
washing your car
on a lawn or other
permeable (able to
absorb liquids)
surface.
Clean up after pets.
Dispose of waste in
the trash.
Keep litter, leaves
and debris out of
the street gutters
and storm drains.
These drain directly
to lakes, streams,
rivers and wetlands.
Keep a drip pan
under parked cars
and dispose of used
motor oil at an
official recycling
center.
Apply lawn and
garden chemicals
sparingly and
according to
directions.
Brushes and
painting equipment
soiled with
water-based paint
may be rinsed in a
sink.
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
Draw a line to match a solution with
each problem.
www.kidscoop.com © Vicki Whiting February 2021
Official Kids Mag
