STORM WATER AWARENESS WEEK MAY 10-16 Published May 13, 2010 341st Civil Engineer Squadron Asset Management Flight MALMSTROM AIR FORCE BASE, Mont. -- Storm water pollution is caused by the daily activities of people everywhere. Rainwater and snowmelt run off streets, lawns, farms, construction and industrial sites. As runoff flows over the ground or pavement, it picks up fertilizers, dirt, pesticides, oil and grease, and many other pollutants on its way to our rivers, lakes and coastal waters. Anything that enters a storm sewer system is discharged untreated into the water bodies we use for swimming, fishing and providing drinking water. Polluted storm water runoff can have adverse effects on fish, plants, animals and people. This can result in the destruction of fish and wildlife habitats and a reduction in the aesthetic value and recreational use of our waterways. In support of the efforts of the Air Force to protect our nation's natural waterways, the 341st Missile Wing commander proclaimed May 10-16 to be Malmstrom AFB Storm Water Awareness Week. Montana's rich and diverse natural environment relies on a delicate balance with industry and individuals. Malmstrom AFB and the United States Air Force are committed to practices that enhance and protect this balance. Our local water resources are home to abundant life, ranging in size from algae to trout. All aquatic life is dependent on a clean environment to reproduce, grow and find food. Without clean water these plants and animals would not survive. The 341st CES Asset Management Flight and Malmstrom volunteers conducted a storm water awareness program. They distributed flyers to military family housing residents and tenant businesses, and adhered awareness markers to Malmstrom's storm drain inlets. You can help protect Montana's waters by implementing the suggestions in the flyer and always considering the environment before conducting any activities. For additional information, contact Lana Hedlund at 731-6175. HEALTHY HOUSEHOLD HABITS FOR CLEAN WATER Vehicle and Garage · Use the base carwash or a commercial car wash to minimize the amount of dirty, soapy water flowing into the storm drain. · Check your car, truck, boat, motorcycle and other equipment for leaks or spills and make repairs as soon as possible. Don't drive a car with oil leaks. Place a drip pan underneath to catch the oil. · Clean up spilled fluids with an absorbent material like cat litter. · Recycle used oil and other automotive fluids. Drop them off at Building 410 during regular business hours. Lawn and Garden · Use pesticides and fertilizers sparingly. · Select native plants and grasses that are drought and pest resistant. · Sweep up yard debris, rather than hosing down areas. · Don't over water your lawn. · Cover piles of dirt and mulch being used in landscaping projects. Pet Care · When caring for your pet, remember to pick up waste and dispose of it properly.