Minimize polluted surface water by:

• Never allowing discharges to enter any surface waters (including cans, bottles, cleaners, sewage, fertilizers, paper products, paint chips, swimming pool backwash.)
• Never pour paints, solvents, oils or other hazardous materials down the sink or on the ground because they can affect water quality in the Bay.
• Don’t flush chemicals, plastic tampon applicators, condoms, etc., especially on board boats!
• Keep dumpsters away from surface waters
• Remove boats from water when making repairs

Minimize when you Fertilize:

• Apply fertilizer more frequently and in smaller applications
• Choose salt and drought-tolerant plants such as buttonwood, mahogany and live oak that don’t require extensive fertilization and irrigation
• Select a fertilizer which has at least ¼ of the nitrogen in a slow-release water insoluble form
• Override the Harmful Effects of Pesticides:
• Reducing the pesticide use, reduces the chances of harming desirable plant and animal species, our community and Biscayne Bay
• Plant native South Florida plants such as gumbo limbo, wax myrtle and live oak which are less susceptible to pest invasion
• Don’t use pesticides as a preventive measure. Monitor insects and allow for natural predators to reduce pest populations.
• Choose the least toxic pesticides available.

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Don’t Be Fuelish:

• Automotive leaks mean more gasoline, motor oil, metal parts, etc. in our stormwater runoffs.
• Maintain your vehicle so leaks are promptly repaired.
• Recycle motor oil. Call the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) at 1-800-741-4DEP for the recycling location nearest you.
• Never dump antifreeze or motor oil into storm drains, ditches or on the ground.
• Be sure to conserve water and use biodegradable, low phosphate soap when washing your car.
• Carpool and use public transportation whenever possible.

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Put Litter in its Proper place:

• Garbage is not only unsightly but may cause death to many of the Bay's marine animals. Do not throw any trash into the water.
• While boating, store trash on board and dispose of it on land.
• Never dispose of monofilament fishing line in the water.
• Break or cut loops of six-pack holders to ensure that, if the rings escape into the Bay, it won’t entangle an animal.
• Don’t dispose of plastics in a sewer system.
• Avoid using plastic or Styrofoam utensils, containers, straws, etc.
• Request paper bags instead of plastic. Better yet, when you go shopping, bring your own reusable bag instead.
• Recycle your plastics. Call Community Recycling about curbside pickup at 633-3100.

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