Residents

Consider incorporating stormwater best management practices (BMPs) into your daily life. With both structural and behavioral BMPs to choose from, there is never a shortage of opportunities to be a watershed hero!

Structural BMPs are landscape-level features installed to help water slow down and soak into the ground; these features help to reduce community flooding and prevent pollution from heading downstream. Some BMPs, typically commercial or community-scale, are complex and require the assistance of a professional to design. And some BMPs are applicable for residential-scale settings, in your yard, schoolyard or community center. Below is information to help you inspire your neighbors and get started on your BMP project today!

Behavioral BMPs play a huge role in protecting downstream water quality. Even small actions taken by individuals can add up to make a positive impact across your community. Some key steps include the following:

• Certify your yard as a Carolina Yard! This Clemson Extension program guides residents in creating an aesthetically pleasing landscape that works with nature, not against it.
• Keep dumpster and garbage can lids closed and secure.
• Keep fats, oil, and grease out of your sink—store them in a can instead and dispose of in the trash. Learn more by visiting the Fats, Oils, and Grease Pollution Factsheet.
• Wash your car at a commercial car wash where the wash-water is treated, or if washing at home, park your car on the grass so wash-water will soak into the ground.
• Install a rain barrel.
• Don’t guess soil test. Your local Clemson Extension office can help with your soil testing needs. Soil testing is an important first step before applying fertilizer to lawn and garden.
• Pick up after pets when on walks and in your backyard.
• Consider incorporating native plants into your landscaping decisions, native plants typically require little to no fertilizer or irrigation once established.
• Reduce the use of single use plastic. Some simple ways include using a reusable shopping bag when going to the store, using a refillable water bottle and when possible, skip the straw.
• Always maintain septic tank systems and assure are functioning as intended.
• Only rain down the drain! Avoid dumping anything down the storm drain that does not belong there such as yard debris and paint washing.

Residential BMP Projects

• Stormwater Pond Management
• Shorescaping
• Downspout Disconnection
• Tree Plantings
• Rain Gardens
• Rain Barrels and Cisterns
• Permeable Pavement
• Tidal Creek Buffers  
• Native Plant Landscaping
• Bioretention