Northern Virginia is fortunate to have abundant streams, lakes, and rivers that provide a range of environmental, social, and economic benefits to surrounding communities. When those waterways are polluted, water quality is impaired, with negative effects to both humans and the natural environment. Pollution can come from many sources, natural or human-caused. Stormwater runoff is the primary cause of poor water quality; when it rains or snows, water runs off the streets, driveways, yards, and parking lots, taking with it litter, fertilizer, road salts, animal waste, and auto fluids. That murky soup flows overland, enters storm drains on the street, and gets discharged directly into nearby streams.

The Northern Virginia Clean Water Partners includes local governments, the Northern Virginia Regional Commission, Virginia Coastal Zone Management Program, drinking water and sanitation authorities, and businesses that recognize the importance of keeping residents healthy and safe by reducing the amount of pollution from runoff. The Partners also work to empower individuals to take action to reduce pollution. Many stormwater inlets display the Partnership Motto, “Only Rain Down the Drain.” The Partners’ 2023 campaign focuses on reducing nutrients (phosphorus and nitrogen), bacteria, salt, and illicit discharges, like pesticides and motor oils. Pet owners, home mechanics, and residents with a lawn or garden can take some simple steps to adjust their own behaviors and help reduce pollution. Picking up after your pet (including in your own yard), recycling motor oil and other auto fluids, and reducing or eliminating the amount of fertilizer used on your lawn or garden are easy ways to help improve water quality.

The 2023 campaign uses social media, television, printed advertising, and the “Only Rain” website to distribute messaging about stormwater awareness. An online survey of 500 Northern Virginia residents revealed that 69 percent of residents are familiar with the term “watershed,” and 45 percent of those said that they live in the Potomac River watershed. However, only 30 percent noted that they also live in the Chesapeake Bay watershed. A majority of respondents knew that stormwater drains to the river or the bay, but nearly half thought that stormwater also goes to a wastewater treatment facility. A complete list of Clean Water Partners, the 2023 summary report, and more information about their work to improve water quality can be accessed at www.onlyrain.org.

Simple conservation landscaping changes can make a difference. Native plants can help your yard absorb more runoff; Green Spring Gardens Park has many examples of native plants in natural surroundings, and the Master Gardeners at the park can provide many helpful hints about native plants that are best for your yard. Decades ago, wooden rain barrels were popular devices to capture and conserve rainwater for use in the garden. Today’s rain barrels are lighter and more easily moved (when empty, of course), and make a nice “canvas” for decorative art. Take a look at the rain barrels at Belvedere Elementary School on Columbia Pike for inspiration. Neighbors’ yards also may provide some inspiration. It’s early for New Year’s resolutions, but never too early to plan for more conservation plantings. Autumn is a great time to plant; next spring is a good time, too.

Penny Gross is the Mason District Supervisor, in the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors. She may be emailed at mason@fairfaxcounty.gov.