Welcome to Water Quality Month! We each play a crucial role in preserving and enhancing the water quality in our communities. Here are some actionable steps you can take toward cleaner and safer water for all, starting with your very own household.

water conservation

rain gardens and barrels

Rain gardens can be a beautiful and beneficial feature of your lawn. They help filter out pollutants in runoff and provide habitats for butterflies, birds, and other wildlife. According to the Groundwater Foundation, “Rain gardens are effective in removing up to 90% of nutrients and chemicals and up to 80% of sediments from the rainwater runoff. Compared to a conventional lawn, rain gardens allow for 30% more water to soak into the ground.”

Rain barrels are another efficient addition to any yard. Not only will they help lower your usage and water bills, but they can also reduce erosion and flooding from stormwater. Erosion can damage a home’s foundation and remove nutrient-rich topsoil from gardens. Your home and garden will thank you for collecting rainwater!

plant native species

Native plants have already adapted to your specific climate and, in turn, need less attention from you. Who doesn’t want a lovely garden that requires little effort?! Native plants have robust root systems that filter water and reduce runoff. Check out the astonishing difference in root depth below.

water-saving appliances

Approximately 27 billion gallons of water are used each day for residential purposes in the US. This water is withdrawn from surface water sources and groundwater. When the time comes to upgrade appliances, you can help with conservation efforts by installing more efficient appliances. There are many options for water-saving fixtures, such as dishwashers, washing machines, toilets, and low flow shower heads and faucets.

repair leaking fixtures

Residential water leaks can increase household water use by 9.5 gallons per day, so time is of the essence when it comes to addressing these issues. Make sure to repair leaky faucets and running toilets ASAP.

improving water quality

maintain septic systems

There’s a reason municipalities are so strict when it comes to septic maintenance; improperly functioning systems can have severe repercussions. Household wastewater contains bacteria, viruses, and high levels of nitrogen and phosphorus. When sewage is insufficiently treated it can contaminate groundwater and nearby surface water which leads to the spread of disease. If your household has a septic system, you need to be vigilant when it comes to septic system warning signs.

Contact a septic professional if you notice these issues:

• Slow draining tubs, showers, and faucets
• Backups in toilets and drains 
• Standing water near septic tanks and drainfields
• Bright green, spungy lush grass over septic tanks or drainfields 
• Bad odors near septic tanks and drainfields

upgrade plumbing

Aging pipes can leach dissolved lead, copper, iron, and other toxic heavy metals into your water. Not only are modern plumbing systems more efficient, they also lower the risk of contamination. Inspect visible plumbing for signs of corrosion and upgrade galvanized pipes to PVC when you notice wear and tear. You can also implement long term strategies to lower the buildup of minerals, harmful metals, and bacteria in your water system by installing a water softener or filtration system.

use eco-friendly household cleaners

Cleaning products play an important role in removing allergens and infectious agents. However, you should be conscientious about the impact your cleaning products have on water quality. Traditional cleaning supplies can pollute water when rinsed down the drain. Opt for products with biodegradable ingredients.

up your involvement

Household management is one critical step toward protecting this invaluable resource. If you’re ready to advocate on a larger scale, there are plenty of organizations that need your help! Check out these groups to up your involvement:

Alliance for the Great Lakes
Superior Watershed Partnership and Land Conservancy
Freshwater Future
Great Lakes PFAS Action Network
Healing Our Waters Great Lakes Coalition

Whether it's through reducing water consumption or adopting eco-friendly practices, our everyday choices can make a significant impact on water potability. Do your part by prioritizing the protection of our natural water sources.