Stormwater solutions positive for the Cape Fear River

When it rains in coastal North Carolina stormwater pours off our plethora of parking lots into the neighborhoods, parks and eventually the Cape Fear River, and with the stream of water pollutants with it.  Our increasing number of surfaces don’t allow the water to soak into the ground. Local groups are advancing public education which acknowledge the big public policy issues at play, but also offer solutions we can all take.  The episode features staff from Heal Our Waterways and the Cape Fear River Watch. Here are ten things you can do about stormwater in Wilmington, North Carolina, New Hanover County, along with helpful links:Install Rain Barrels: Collect rainwater from your roof to use in your garden.New Hanover County Rain Barrel ProgramCreate a Rain Garden: Plant a garden designed to absorb rainwater runoff.NC State Extension on Rain GardensUse Permeable Pavements: Replace impermeable surfaces with materials that allow water to seep through.EPA on Permeable PavementPlant Native Vegetation: Native plants require less water and help reduce runoff.NC Native Plant SocietyReduce Lawn Fertilizer Use: Excess fertilizer can wash into storm drains and pollute waterways.NC State Extension on Fertilizer ManagementProperly Dispose of Hazardous Waste: Prevent chemicals from entering storm drains.New Hanover County Household Hazardous Waste ProgramClean Up Pet Waste: Pet waste left on the ground can wash into storm drains.EPA on Pet Waste ManagementInstall Green Roofs: A green roof can absorb rainwater and reduce runoff.NC State Extension on Green RoofsParticipate in Community Clean-Ups: Join efforts to clean local waterways and reduce pollution.Cape Fear River WatchEducate Your Community: Raise awareness about stormwater management practices.NC Coastal FederationImplementing these actions can help manage stormwater and protect the environment in Wilmington and New Hanover County.Hosted & Produced by Akshay Gokul Support Shoresides’ local storytelling. Your gift helps us amplify coastal voices: https://givebutter.com/to7as6