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Photo by N. Pierson, 2014

For decades, Lake Whatcom Watershed residents have been doing their part to help protect Lake Whatcom for future generations. You can help too by becoming a Lake Whatcom Steward today and remembering to take these simple actions in your home or yard.

Reporting Stormwater Issues or Pollution 

Help protect Lake Whatcom by keeping it clean and safe. Report flooding, erosion, and pollution to our online form. 

Photo by M. Jovan, 2015

Car Washing

Outdoor car washing results in large amounts of dirt, road grime, oil, and heavy metals flowing into waterways.  

Photo courtesy of Whatcom County 

Picking up Litter

Join the Whatcom County Health Department "Adopt-a-Road" program to keep our waterways, beaches, and neighborhoods litter free.

Photo courtesy of Whatcom County 

Keeping Storm Drains Clear of Debris

Learn about an easy way to help prevent flooding in your neighborhood.

Photo by S. Stockburger, 2013

Gardening and Landscaping

The choices you make taking care of your yard and landscaping play an important role in protecting Lake Whatcom.  

Photo by A. Grimm, 2013

Pets, Farms, and Wildlife

Pick up dog waste in your yard and public places. Bag it and place it in the trash. A single gram of pet waste contains 23 million fecal coliform bacteria colonies. 

Buildings and Surfaces

Because of impervious surfaces like pavement and rooftops, a typical city block generates more than 5 times more runoff than a forested area of the same size. 

Septic Systems

Over 700 homes in the Lake Whatcom watershed rely on a septic system to treat their sewage. A failing septic system can allow potentially harmful bacteria and other disease-causing microorganisms to enter our drinking water

Water Conservation

Promoting water conservation is an important component of the City's commitment to ensure clean, safe, drinking water for future generations. 

Photo by J. Owen, 2007

Hazardous Materials

Americans generate 1.6 millions tons of household hazardous waste per year. These materials need to be disposed of safely to avoid harming humans and the environment. 

Resources