What can I do to help minimize the risk of having a fish kill in my neighborhood?
  • Minimize the use of fertilizers on lawns and gardens. If you must fertilize, follow the application recommendations provided on the fertilizer bag.
  • Consider installing a mulching blade on your lawnmower. Mulching grass clippings rather than bagging them keeps soil nutrients on your lawn thereby reducing the need to add fertilizer. Mulching also helps build up the organic content of soil which helps hold water and reduce the need for watering.
  • If you must bag grass clippings and leaves, consider composting as an alternative to putting this material on the curb for trash pickup. Compost can be used to improve your lawn and garden soil.
  • Scoop up pet wastes in your yard, and when walking your dog around the neighborhood. Dispose of the pet waste in your trash bin.
  • Do not dump household chemicals, oil, garden chemicals, etc. into the storm drain. Only rain down the storm drain!

For more information on how to be a good environmental steward, visit our Stormwater Education pages.

Show All Answers

1. What causes fish kills in stormwater ponds?
2. What do I do if I observe a fish kill in one of Chesapeake’s stormwater ponds?
3. How does the City respond to fish kills?
4. What can I do to help minimize the risk of having a fish kill in my neighborhood?