What can you do in your own backyard to help
keep the Anacostia clean?
Image licensed with CC PDM 1.0
Fertilize responsibly
If you fertilize your lawn, the best time to do so is in early Fall, such as September. Experts say to apply no more than 0.9 pounds of nitrogen per 1,000 square feet of area. Exceeding this recommended amount can pollute nearby waterbodies, because too much nitrogen and phosphorous will cause algae to grow. Too much algae harms the river because it prevents sunlight and oxygen from reaching other living things in the river and they suffer or die. Learn more about lawn care here!
Pick up pet waste
Some people believe that it’s okay, or even natural, to leave their pet’s waste on the ground. In addition to being gross and potentially ruining someone’s shoes, pet waste left on the ground is actually very bad for our waterways. It can get carried away in heavy rains to nearby waterways, bringing with it high levels of bacteria that infect the fish and make anyone who comes into contact with the water sick. Learn more!
"Back Creek Nature Park in Anne Arundel County, Md." by chesbayprogram is licensed under CC BY-NC 2.0
"Used Oil" by Michael @ NW Lens is licensed under CC BY-NC-ND 2.0
Recycle motor oil
Motor oil is the only petroleum product that can be reused. Recycling it can protect the environment and public health, and save energy and non-renewable petroleum resources. Used oil is the largest single source of oil pollution (over 40 percent) in U.S. waterways! In DC, used motor oil is accepted at the Fort Totten transfer station. If you live in Maryland, visit here to learn how and where to recycle your used motor oil.