|
Tips For Reducing
Your Impact
 |
Fertilizers:
Fertilizers
contain nitrates and phosphates that, in abundance, cause
algal blooms or hypoxia (low oxygen) that can lead to fish
kills. Avoid
the unnecessary use of fertilizers and do not apply them before
a heavy rainfall when it is more likely they will be carried
into the bay by runoff.
|
more
info. on fertilizer use
|
Pesticides:
Many household products made to exterminate pests are also
toxic to humans, animals, aquatic organisms and plants.
Use alternatives whenever possible.
If you do use a pesticide, follow the label directions
carefully.
|
more info. on pesticide use
|
Household
Hazardous Products:
Many common household products (paint thinners, moth balls,
drain and oven cleans, to name a few) contain toxic ingredients.
When improperly used or discarded, these products are
a threat to public health and the environment.
Do not discard with the regular household trash.
Use natural and less toxic alternatives whenever possible.
Call 1-516-767-4600 for
information regarding household hazardous waste collection.
|
|
Litter:
Place litter, including cigarette butts and fast food containers,
in trash receptacles. Never throw litter in streets or
down storm drains. Recycle as much as possible.
|
|
Pet
Waste: Animal wastes contain
bacteria and viruses that can contaminate shellfish and cause
the closing of beaches.
Pet owners
should use newspaper, bags or scoopers to pick up after pets
and dispose of wastes in the garbage or toilet.
|
|
Motor
Oil: Used motor oil contains toxic chemicals that are
harmful to animals, humans and fish.
Do not dump used motor oil down storm drains or on
the ground. Recycle
all used motor oil by taking it to a local public or private
recycling center.
|
|
Car
Washing: Wash your car only when necessary.
Consider using a commercial car wash that recycles
its wash water. Like
fertilizers, many car detergents contain phosphate.
If you wash your car at home, use a non-phosphate detergent.
|
|
Septic
Systems: An improperly working septic
system can contaminate ground water and create public health
problems. Avoid
adding unnecessary grease, household hazardous products and
solids to your septic system.
Inspect your tank annually and pump it out every 3
to 5 years depending on its use.
|
more
info. on septic systems
|
Boat
Discharges: Dumping boat sewage
overboard introduces bacteria and viruses into the water.
Boat owner should always use marine sanitation devices
and pump-out facilities. Manhasset Bay is a “no discharge” zone. For free pump outs call the Town of North Hempstead Dock @
1-516-767-4622 or the Town Pump-Out Boat on VHF Channel 9. |
more
info. on safe boating
|
