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The following best management practices are recommended to prevent water pollution at apartment complexes and multi-family housing units.
Report Spills
Report spills and inappropriate discharges of wastewater into the storm system by calling WES: 503-742-4567. For significant hazardous material spills, call 9-1-1, and ask the dispatcher to notify WES.
Maintain Storm Drains
Property owners are responsible for maintaining storm drains and stormwater facilities (swales, ponds, etc.) on their property. Clackamas County Water Environment Services (WES) Storm Drain Cleaning Assistance Program (SCAP) offers low-cost storm drain cleaning: www.clackamas.us/wes/swm#stormdrain
Waste Management
Uncovered solid waste, recyclables, and chemicals can be sources of stormwater pollution. Please cover or move these materials inside. Sweep and pick up additional debris instead of hosing or pressure washing pollution into the storm system.
Pick Up Dog Waste
Dog poop that is left on the ground can wash into storm drains and contaminate our streams and rivers. Please consider providing a dog waste bag dispenser with biodegradable bags to encourage tenants to pick up waste immediately and dispose of in a garbage can.
Paints & Stains
Store all chemicals in closed containers and clean up all spills immediately. Use ecofriendly paints and stains. Look for products that do not contain zinc, copper, or other pollutants, which enter the environment with stormwater runoff. Select safer choice products: www.epa.gov/saferchoice/products
Wash Vehicles Off-Site
Stormwater systems in this area drain to the nearest creek or river. Please don’t wash vehicles in parking lots or streets. Encourage tenants to use a commercial car wash that recycles water and discharges to the sanitary sewer.
Stormwater Management
To reduce the amount of pollution entering our rivers and streams, slow down your stormwater and allow for water infiltration into the soil. Go the extra mile: Install a rain garden or parking lot swale to infiltrate stormwater on-site.
Avoid Zinc & Copper
Treating moss with zinc and copper products creates runoff that is harmful to aquatic life. If using chemical controls, pick a safer product for people and the environment by visiting www.growsmartgrowsafe.org
Use Natural Controls to Manage Moss
- Reduce shade by pruning branches
- Use a stiff bristled brush or broom to remove moss
- Correct acidity problems with lime after soil test
- Correct drainage problems
- Avoid pressure washing when possible
- Avoid powdered soaps during rainy season
- If using chemical controls, disconnect downspout to retain roof runoff onsite
For more information and free technical assistance Contact us at: 503-742-4567
