Best Management Practices

Land-based sources of pollution can make their way from our homes into groundwater, canals, and Biscayne Bay. The resources below are designed to help guide you and other South Florida residents through individual actions to help reduce your pollution footprint.

Reuse and Reduce Waste

• Practice using reusable shopping bags, water bottles, and containers to limit single-use items.
• Eliminate the use of polystyrene (Styrofoam) and plastic food service containers.
  • Read more:
    • General Waste Reduction Best Management Practices

Septic/Sewage Education

• Pump out and conduct maintenance on your septic tank at least every three years.
• Prevent any chemicals, cooking oils, or harsh cleaning solutions from entering drain pipes (bathroom, kitchen, etc.)
• Do not flush items like cotton balls, paper towels, wet wipes, and cotton swabs down the toilet. Only toilet paper!
  • Read more:
    • Miami-Dade County Best Management Practices
    • Think Before you Flush

Fertilizer & Lawn Care

• Know the correct fertilizer mix for your lawn and/or let your landscaper know: use 0% phosphorus and try to aim for50% slow release nitrogen.
• Don't fertilize during rainy summer months (May 15-October 31) or before heavy rainfall.
• Fertilize at least 15 feet from waterways and storm drains.
• Limit use of sprinklers, especially during rainy summer months.
  • Read more:
    • Best Management Practices to help Limit the Amount of Nutrients Entering our Waterways

Responsible Pet Ownership

• Avoid leaving pet waste on lawns/yards to limit exposure to stormwater.
• Use pet waste bags to collect your dog's waste, using biodegradable ones when possible.
• Properly dispose of sealed pet waste in your trash can, in a public trash bin, or at designated pet waste collection stations.
  • Read more:
    • Animal Waste Best Management Practices Factsheet

Car Washing

• Wash at a commercial car washing facility when you can! This ensures water gets treated before being discharged.
• If washing a car at home:
  • Minimize the amount of water used and either divert runoff to or, preferably, clean the car directly on a grassy area where it can filter through the ground.
  • Avoid washing your car on a street or driveway as these may be near a storm drain.
  • Use biodegradable and/or phosphate free soaps.
    • Read more:
      • Reducing Land-Based Sources of Pollution to Florida Waters: Best Management Practices

Legal Advocacy

• Use your voice to become an environmental advocate!
• Sign a petition to add your voice to an ongoing campaign.
  • Read more:
    • Miami Waterkeeper Campaigns