Protect the Earth / Protect our Water

Oil does not dissolve in water. It is virtually impossible to “treat” out of watershed. Oil and other petroleum products are toxic to people, wildlife and plants.

One pint of oil can make a slick larger than a football field. Oil that leaks from our cars onto roads and driveways is washed into storm drains, and then usually flows directly to a creek or lake and

finally to the local rivers.

Used motor oil is the largest single source of oil pollution in our surface waters. Americans spill / dispose of 180 million gallons of used oil each year into our waters. This is 16 times the amount spilled by the Exxon Valdez in Alaska.

What can YOU do to help?

• Stop drips. Check for oil leaks regularly and fix them promptly.

• Use ground cloths or drip pans beneath your vehicle if you have leaks or are doing engine work.

• Clean up spills immediately - Collect all used oil in containers with tight fitting lids. Do not mix 

  different engine fluids.

• When you change your oil, dispose of it properly. Never dispose of oil or other engine fluids down

   the storm drain, on the ground or into a ditch.

• Recycle used motor oil.

Remember: It’s not just stormwater – It’s your drinking water!

To report problems contact Byron Blumenfeld – Town of Spring Lake Water Resources Manager – 436-0241 ext 307

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