Education
"Only Rain Should Go Down the Drain"
The Town's stormwater management program aims to reduce pollution that washes from buildings, pavement and other surfaces that are impervious to rainwater. Our education program includes utility bill inserts and other mailings, newspaper advertisements, workshops, videos and the Web. Staff members are available to advise homeowners, business owners, and to speak to civic groups.
The Town's stormwater management program aims to reduce pollution that washes from buildings, pavement and other surfaces that are impervious to rainwater. Our education program includes utility bill inserts and other mailings, newspaper advertisements, workshops, videos and the Web. Staff members are available to advise homeowners, business owners, and to speak to civic groups.
Check out the Block Leader Program to learn about the Town's environmental programs and become a resource for neighbors on conservation. Stevens Nature Center is an excellent resource for more information on rain barrels, water gardens and stream buffers. A rain garden demonstration site has been installed at White Oak Park.
The Town of Cary is a founding partner of the Clean Water Education Partnership, which is administered by the Triangle J Council of Governments. This partnership is comprised of a group of local governments within the Neuse River basin that provides outreach and education on stormwater quality through media and the web.
The Soil Science and Biological & Agricultural Engineering departments at N.C. State University also have information for homeowners and developers on storm water issues.
The Town of Cary has homeowners in town that are still using septic tanks to treat wastewater onsite. These systems need to be maintained to function properly. The septic tank system can be maintained by conserving water use, do not flush items that will not break down naturally, do not pour grease down the drain and have your tank pumped out regularly by a licensed contractor. North Carolina State University has a Septic System Owners Guide for more information.
Ways to Help
- Volunteer to stencil storm drains in your area
- Never place anything down a storm drain
- Reduce impervious areas so that rain can soak into the ground naturally
- Protect Urban Transition Buffers along creeks and streams that help filter pollutants and help stabilize the banks.
- Conserve water by not overwatering your lawn and plants. Check the water conservation website for more information.
- Use native plants and plant natural areas instead of lawns that are easier to maintain and use less water.
- Limit the use of fertilizer by having your soil tested and never fertilize before a rainstorm. Sweep fertilizer back on the lawn to keep it from washing down the stormdrain.
- Clean up after your pets by picking up after them and throwing it in the trash
- Wash your car at a commercial car wash or where the water can soak into the ground
- Reduce, recycle and reuse
- Dispose of household hazardous waste properly by taking it to an approved facility.
- Watch the video on Water Quality to learn more about the ways you can make a difference
