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| Septic
Systems—Reduce bacteria by making sure your septic
system is functioning properly. |
- Inspect
tanks every 2–3 years and pump out as needed.
- Do
not poison your system by flushing harsh chemicals, oil
or grease, hair, diapers, paper towels or other large waste
products.
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| Pet
Waste—Reduce bacteria by properly disposing of pet
waste. |
- Pick
up pet waste and either flush it or throw it away.
- Do
not compost waste or leave it in your yard to decompose.
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| Lawn
Maintenance—Reduce nitrogen and save time with these
lawn-care tips. |
- Leave
grass clippings on the lawn.
- Water
the lawn early in the morning or late in the evening when
evaporation rates are lowest.
- Turn
the water off when the lawn is saturated. Water flowing
off your lawn down the street does not help your lawn and
carries pollutants to Brooker Creek.
- Landscape
with native plants. Florida
Yards & Neighborhoods provides help to homeowners
who wish to use native plants.
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Reduce
water usage by following some of these water-saving tips.
- Always
wait until you have a full load of laundry before you wash.
- Take
short showers; they use less water than bathing.
- Limit
showers to less than 5 minutes and install a low-flow showerhead.
- Prevent
toilet leaks, replace your toilet flapper regularly and
make sure it fits correctly.
- Be
sure your dishwasher is full before you run it.
- Learn
to recycle your food waste by composting instead of using
the garbage disposal. Composting will save water while providing
you with an excellent source of fertilizer for yard plants.
- Take
your car to a car wash that recycles water. If you have
to wash your car at home, wash it over the lawn to prevent
soap and other pollutants from entering the storm drain
and eventually Brooker Creek.
- Water
the lawn in early morning or late evening when evaporation
rates are lowest. Better yet, landscape your lawn with varieties
of native plants that require less water.
- Check
your plumbing and repair leaks as soon as possible.
- More
tips
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