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Know the Flow
Public Education
Know the Flow is a public education program sponsored by the Anoka County Highway Department and supported by other county departments. We want to increase public awareness of the impact stormwater runoff can have on water quality. Following a few simple tips can reduce that impact and help keep our waters clean.
Stormwater Defined
Stormwater is water from rain or melting snow that does not soak into the ground. It flows from rooftops, over paved areas and bare soil, and through sloped lawns. As it flows, this runoff collects and transports soil, pet manure, salt, pesticides, fertilizer, oil and grease, leaves, litter and other pollutants.
You don’t need a heavy rain to send pollutants rushing towards streams, wetlands, lakes and oceans. A garden hose alone can supply enough water.
Even if your house is not on a waterfront, storm drains and sewers efficiently convey runoff from your neighborhood to the nearest body of water. Contrary to popular belief, most storm sewers do not carry stormwater to wastewater treatment plants. Storm and sanitary sewers may be combined in some older communities.
Your Actions Make a Difference!
You can help keep our waters clean. Read the articles provided below for some simple tips.
Helpful Articles
- Be Safe Around Pesticides (PDF)
- Can You Eliminate Paved Surfaces or Install Alternatives? (PDF)
- Clean Streets For Clean Water (PDF)
- Clean Yard, Clean Water (PDF)
- Driveway Sealcoats, There Is a Difference (PDF)
- Erosion and Sediment Control Measures (PDF)
- Fall Clean Water Tips (PDF)
- How Is Construction Runoff Harmful? (PDF)
- Keep the Clover (PDF)
- Lake Algae Lake Algae, the Good, the Bad, and the Ugly (PDF)
- Landscaping Tips to Protect Water Quality (PDF)
- Municipal Stormwater Ponds (PDF)
- Should Roof Water Flow Onto Pavement or Grass (PDF)
- Three Big Ways to Curb Your Cars Water Pollution (PDF)
- Ways to Keep Geese From Wearing Out Their Welcome (PDF)
- What Are Riparian Buffers? (PDF)
- What Is the Greenest Way to Maintain an Asphalt Driveway? (PDF)
- What Is the Problem With Pet Waste? (PDF)