At Home
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.
Picking up Litter
Join the Whatcom County Health Department "Adopt-a-Road" program to keep our waterways, beaches, and neighborhoods litter free.
Keeping Storm Drains Clear of Debris
Learn about an easy way to help prevent flooding in your neighborhood.
Gardening and Landscaping
The choices you make taking care of your yard and landscaping play an important role in protecting Lake Whatcom.
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.
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.