Preventing Water Pollution

We all can take steps to protect Connecticut's water and soil resources.

If you're interested in protecting the state's natural resources, the best way to start is at home. With mindful practices and stewarding our small patches of land and water, we can benefit Connecticut's larger soil and waterway resources.

Agricultural runoff accounts for a significant amount of nonpoint source pollution.

Stopping Water Pollution at its Sources

Nonpoint Source Pollution, as the name implies, is pollution that does not come from a single source, but is from many varied sources that in the end pollute our waters (whereas source pollution is more easily identified as for example, pollutants that come out of a pipe from a factory). Water that moves across and through the ground (by rainfall, snowmelt, car washing etc) carries with it manmade and natural pollutants. These pollutants eventually seep into our groundwater and drinking water supplies, and/or are deposited into our swimming areas, lakes, rivers and streams. Nonpoint Source Pollution is one of the leading sources of surface water pollution, and it can also contaminate groundwater.

What are Examples of Nonpoint Sources?

Improper disposal of chemicals (e.g. paint products, oil, gasoline, antifreeze, brake fluid)
Sediment from eroded areas
Oils from pavements and driveways (sometimes seen as a rainbow colored sheen)
Water runoff from gutters and faulty storm drains
Pet and livestock waste
Excess nutrients from chemical fertilizers, herbicides, pesticides and insecticides
Improperly maintained Septic Systems

Illustrations of nonpoint and point source pollution along with elements of the hydrologic cycle. Developed by the EPA, Office of Water, Nonpoint Source Program

Who is responsible for Nonpoint Source Pollution? We all are!

There are a number of ways that you can help reduce Nonpoint Source Pollution and protect Connecticut’s water resources.

Use permeable paving surfaces in your landscape.

Wood decks, bricks, and concrete lattice allow water to soak into the ground.

Allow thick vegetation or buffer strips to grow along waterways.

Buffer strips slow runoff and soak up pollutants. Plant trees, shrubs, and ground cover. They will absorb up to 14 times more rainwater than a grass lawn and don’t require fertilizer.

Don’t hose down driveways or sidewalks.

Dry sweeping paved areas, along with careful trash disposal, are simple, effective pollution reducers.

Use natural alternatives to chemical fertilizers and pesticides.

If you must use chemicals, test your soil to determine the right amount. See also Citizen’s Guide to Pest Control and Pesticide Safety.

Divert runoff from pavement.

Runoff should flow to grassy, planted or wooded areas of your property, so Stormwater can seep slowly into the ground.

Direct drainage properly.

Gutters and down spouts should drain onto vegetated or gravel-filled seepage areas – not directly onto paved surfaces. Splash blocks also help reduce erosion.

Get involved in the planning and zoning process in your community.

That’s where the decisions are made that shape the course of development and the future quality of our environment.

Properly dispose of household hazardous wastes.

Many common household products, (paint thinners, moth balls, drain and oven cleaners, etc.) contain toxic ingredients. When improperly used or discarded, these products are a threat to public health and the environment. Do not pour hazardous products down any drain or toilet. Do not discard with regular household trash.

Recycle all used motor oil.

Take motor oil to a service station or local recycling center. Motor oil contains toxic chemicals; do not dump used motor oil down storm drains or on the ground.

Wash your car on the grass.

This allows soapy water soaks into the ground. Use a hose nozzle to prevent water from running when not in use.

Compost grass clippings and leaves.

Never allow them to wash into roadways where they will reach storm drains.

Dispose of trash properly.

Place litter, including cigarette butts, in trash receptacles. Never throw litter in streets or down storm drains.

Pick up after your pet.

Animal wastes contain bacteria and viruses that contaminate shellfish and cause the closing of bathing areas. Dispose of pet waste in the garbage or toilet.

*Copied with permission from the Alliance for the Chesapeake Bay, Inc. 6600 York Rd., Suite 100, Baltimore, MD 21212-9897 special on Watershed Watch.

Other Resources and Ways to Get Involved

Key Resources for Homeowners

Backyard Conservation Ideas: The NRCS provides a series of tip sheets and guides focusing on small-scale projects like composting, mulching, wildlife habitats, and backyard ponds. You can view the Backyard Conservation Choose Natives guide for an overview of these techniques.
Connecticut Soils & Maps: Access local soil information for property planning and development using the Connecticut's Soils Program, which includes interactive maps and dynamic reports.
Rain Gardens: Learn about how backyard strategies such as raingardens can reduce nonpoint source pollution and beautify your landscape.
EPA: What You Can do to Prevent Nonpoint Source Pollution
Factsheets About Water Pollution
Get Involved! Adopt a Watershed in your area!

Kid-Related Programs

Teacher Resources

Publications and Technical Manuals

Connecticut Guidelines for Soil Erosion and Sediment Control: The Connecticut Guidelines for Soil Erosion and Sediment Control provide technical guidance for the planning, design, installation, and maintenance of erosion and sediment control measures. These guidelines are an important resource for municipalities, land use boards and staff, engineers, contractors, developers, conservation professionals, and others involved in land disturbance, construction, stormwater management, and natural resource protection. The updated guidelines replace the former 2002 Connecticut Guidelines for Soil Erosion and Sediment Control and include revised technical information, updated design details, and guidance intended to support effective erosion and sediment control planning and implementation.
Connecticut Stormwater Quality Manual: The Connecticut Stormwater Quality Manual provides guidance on measures to protect Connecticut’s waters from the adverse impacts of post-construction stormwater runoff. The manual focuses on site planning, source control, Low Impact Development, stormwater treatment practices, and the selection and design of stormwater best management practices. The updated manual replaces the former 2004 Connecticut Stormwater Quality Manual and is intended for use by the regulated and regulatory communities as a planning and design guidance document for stormwater quality management.

Additional Resources

Additional resources related to nonpoint source pollution, stormwater management, erosion and sediment control, green infrastructure, soil health, and watershed protection are available through CT DEEP, UConn CLEAR, USDA-NRCS, EPA, and Connecticut’s Conservation Districts.
These resources can help landowners, municipalities, land use commissions, conservation professionals, educators, and members of the public better understand how everyday land use decisions affect water quality, soil health, and watershed resilience.

Statewide & Regional Organizations

CT DEEP Nature-Based Solutions
Connecticut Land Conservation Council (CLCC): The central hub for land trusts in CT. They provide resources, training, and networking for both municipalities and private landowners interested in conserving open space. You can find a local organization using the CLCC Land Trust Locator.
Connecticut Association of Conservation and Inland Wetlands Commissions (CACIWC): Specifically assists local municipal commissions. They offer educational resources to help municipalities meet statutory responsibilities for protecting wetlands and natural resources.
UConn Center for Land Use Education and Research (CLEAR): Provides municipalities with spatial data, training, and tools to make informed, sustainable land use decisions. Explore their guides via the UCONN CLEAR Watershed Protection Site.
Councils of Governments (COGs): Regional bodies (like RiverCOG or NVCOG) that assist member municipalities with regional planning, zoning guidance, and sustainability strategies across town lines.