Hanover County is pro-active in protecting local waterways and the Chesapeake Bay from pollution.  Citizens can help as well, and here are some simple things you can do in everyday life:

 By picking up your pet waste and litter, you prevent pollution and enhance the habitat of fish and other creatures that live in our waters.

Don’t put leaves and grass clippings in the drainage ways. The County accepts unbagged leaves and grass for composting at the Mechanicsville (Verdi Lane) and Elmont convenience centers and at the Courthouse Park transfer station off Rt. 301.

Minimize fertilizer use and only apply what is needed and recommended.

Wash your car where water does not run off into a storm drainage system.  You are helping the environment when you use a commercial car wash, where the water can be drained appropriately.  If you can wash at home in such a way that the water soaks into the ground, that’s fine too.

If your house uses a septic system, remember to have it routinely maintained.

Remember, anything dumped into a storm sewer inlet ends up in our local waters.  Any drainage concerns can be reported to the Department of Public Works by calling 804-365-6181 or emailing [email protected].