Sustainable Gresham
Wash the car at home with fish in mind
The issue: washing your car in the driveway can send streams of sudsy, greasy, dirty water into the stormdrains, which is harmful to fish and other aquatic organisms ... even if the soap is biodegradable.
One car wash at home in the driveway can use 150 gallons of water.
Tips
- Wash your car over the lawn. This gives your lawn a drink and the soil helps filter soap and grease.
- Use a commercial car wash facility, where dirty water is treated.
- Avoid harsh chemical products such as chrome cleaners and degreasers (visit a commercial car wash for detailing work, if possible).
- Empty dirty car wash water onto the lawn or into a sink or tub.
- Sweep your driveway instead of hosing it off; put dirt back into your landscape.
Planning a car wash fundraiser? Try the City's fish-friendly car wash kit at these Gresham locations
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