22 March 2007
CARE FOR WATERWAYS ON WORLD WATER DAY
In recognition of World Water Day (Thursday 22 March), Melbourne Water is calling on the community to do their bit to improve the health of Melbourne's rivers and creeks.
Melbourne Water general manager waterways, Chris Chesterfield, said there are a number of simple things we can do to reduce pollution in our rivers and creeks.
"World Water Day is an important initiative, because it focuses people's attention on important water issues," Mr Chesterfield said.
"Rivers and creeks are the lifeblood of our communities, and are important for recreation and enjoyment, as a source of water and as habitat for native plants and animals. So it's really important that we look after them.
"Many people don't realise that some of their everyday actions can actually end up polluting their local rivers and creeks. This is because when it rains, litter and pollution from our roads and streets can get washed into stormwater drains and end up in the nearest waterway.
"Everyone should follow these simple everyday tips to make our rivers and creeks an even better place to visit and enjoy," Mr Chesterfield said.
- This autumn, keep gutters and drain entrances clear of fallen leaves. Start a compost heap or use leaves as garden mulch.
- Clean up after your dog and dispose of droppings correctly.
- Dispose of litter correctly and make sure it can't blow or fall out of bins or recycling containers.
- Wash cars on a grassed area so the soapy water doesn't flow into the gutter.
- Don't allow oil, paints and pesticides to enter stormwater drains. Check your vehicle isn't leaking oil or petrol, clean up after using oil-based paints using a recommended paint solvent to soak brushes, and dispose of excess paint the local council's household chemical collection program.
- During landscaping and construction, care should be taken to stop soil and sand stockpiles from entering street gutters and they should be protected from wind and rain under secured plastic sheeting or tarpaulins.
Melbourne Water invests over $30 million a year on a Healthy Rivers Program to protect and improve our rivers and creeks.
Learn more about how to help protect the health of our rivers, creeks, wetlands and bays by visiting Melbourne Water's website at melbournewater.com.au.
Information on World Water Day is available at www.worldwaterday.org.