Anoka County warns residents about illicit stormwater discharges, offers prevention tips

Anoka County staff issued an advisory on protecting local lakes, rivers and wetlands from illicit discharges into stormwater drains and offered specific steps residents can take to reduce pollution.

The county warned that illicit discharges — substances other than stormwater entering the drainage system — can include oil, chemicals, sediment and other materials that harm aquatic life and recreation. County staff listed actions homeowners and residents can take to reduce risk and keep drains clear.

Among the tips, county staff said residents should avoid overfertilizing lawns, revegetate bare or eroding areas, secure trash placed at the curb, and never dispose of pet waste in storm drains. They urged people to keep leaves, grass clippings and yard debris away from grates because such material can block drains and fuel algae growth. For vehicle washing, staff recommended doing it on a lawn so runoff soaks into the ground or taking vehicles to a commercial car-wash facility. The advisory also recommended pumping septic tanks every four years.

For disposal of household hazardous materials, the announcement directed residents to take used motor oil and old or unused paint to the Anoka County household hazardous waste facility or to a paint-care drop-off location. The statement said anyone who needs to report an illicit discharge should contact Rebecca Hauge at the email address and phone number listed by the county (not specified in the announcement).

The advisory framed these steps as cooperative, everyday actions to help keep Anoka County’s water bodies clean and safe for fishing, boating and other recreation.