FAQs

What is a watershed?

A watershed is an area of land that catches rain or snow and drains it into a central location. Every drop of water that falls on parks, farms, forests, parking lots, and even your lawn is channeled into soil, groundwater, creeks, and streams.

Why is watershed protection important?

The waters that comprise our watershed supply our drinking water, water for agriculture and manufacturing, offer opportunities for recreation and provide habitat to many plants and animals.

Unfortunately various forms of pollution, including runoff and erosion, can interfere with the health of the watershed. Therefore, it is important to protect the quality of our watersheds.

How can I get involved in the Ulao Creek Partnership?

Watch our website or follow us on social media for information about events, volunteer opportunities and meetings. Click here to contact us for more information.

What can individuals do to protect our watershed?

Don’t pour toxic household chemicals down the drain. Never pour oil or antifreeze into storm drains or the street. Take them to a hazarous waste center.
Conserve water. Fix leaks & turn off the water when not in use.
Use native plants that require little or no watering, fertilizers or pesticides in your yard and help control water runoff.
Consider using organic or slow release products when fertilizing.
Recycle yard waste in a compost pile & use a mulching mower.
Use surfaces like wood, brick or gravel for decks & walkways, which allows rain to soak in and not run off.
Pick up after your dog, and dispose of the waste in the toilet or the trash.
Drive less—walk or bike; many pollutants in our waters come from car exhaust and car leaks.
Limit use of snow melt salt, or use alternatives

What can landowners do to protect our watershed?

Promote and enhance vegetation along streams and pond by removing non native invasive species, and planting native plants. Planting native vegetation can help prevent erosion and absorb excess nutrients and pollutants that might otherwise enter the watershed. Native plants are well adapted to the local climate and soil conditions and require less water and fertilizer than non-native species.Take steps to control erosion and sedimentation from driveways, roads, and other earth-disturbing activities.
Create buffer zones: A buffer zone is an area of vegetation that is left between a waterway and a field, lawn, or other land use. Buffer zones can help to filter out pollutants and prevent erosion. Landowners can create buffer zones by planting trees, shrubs, and grasses along the edges of their property.Manage forested lands
Practice Sustainable Agriculture. Use conservation tillage practices: Conservation tillage practices such as no-till or reduced tillage can help to reduce soil erosion and improve soil health. These practices can also help to retain moisture in the soil and reduce the amount of sediment and nutrients that enter the watershed.
Practice proper waste management: Proper waste management practices such as composting, recycling, and disposing of hazardous materials properly can help to prevent pollutants from entering the watershed.
Support local watershed groups: Landowners can support local watershed groups by volunteering their time or donating funds to help with conservation efforts. These groups often work to monitor water quality, restore habitats, and educate the public about the importance of protecting the watershed.