How You Can Help Protect Water
Small actions at home and in our community help protect local water sources and keep drinking water clean and safe.
Protecting water starts at home
You can help by:
- Disposing of chemicals, oils, and paint properly - never pour them down sinks, toilets, or storm drains. Take them to approved disposal locations. Hazardous Household Waste - Simcoe County
- Using fertilizers and pesticides carefully - extra chemicals can wash into nearby lakes, rivers, and groundwater during rain.
- Picking up pet waste - pet waste can carry bacteria that pollute water sources when left on the ground.
- Managing rainwater on your property - rain barrels and rain gardens help reduce runoff and filter rainwater before it reaches storm drains.
Protecting water outdoors
Innisfil's lakes, streams, and groundwater are affected by everyday outdoor activities.
You can help by:
- Keeping grass clippings and leaves off roads and sidewalks - organic waste can wash into storm drains during rain.
- Using a professional car wash or washing on the lawn with biodegradable soap - this helps prevent soap and debris from entering storm drains.
- Use salt-free alternatives for melting snow and ice
- Use proper containers and equipment - avoid spilling gas, or other chemicals into our local waterways.
Why this matters
Rain and snowmelt can carry pollution from streets, yards, and driveways into nearby water sources. Preventing pollution before it enters the system helps protect water quality and reduces the need for extra treatment.
Protecting water is a shared responsibility — and small everyday actions make a real difference for our community.