Protect the Source

Protect the Source by helping to conserve watersheds and prevent pollution in local waterways. Good water stewardship is essential to preserve water for the benefit of local health and the economy - now and for future generations. 

Communities depend on a reliable supply of safe, high-quality drinking water.  You can help ensure high quality drinking water at the tap by protecting essential water sources. If rivers, lakes and underground wells are kept free from pollution, it's easier and less expensive to keep water safe and healthy. 

What is Source Water?

Source water is a raw, untreated supply of water – used for current or future drinking water.

What is Source Water Protection?

Source Water Protection is a proactive approach to safeguarding, maintaining, or improving the quality and/or quantity of drinking water sources and their contributing areas. 

Protecting Local Waterways in St. Cloud

St. Cloud protects local waterways using a variety of methods, from sweeping the streets to managing an Adopt-a-Drain program, hosting community education events and much more. 

A few of the actions taken to protect water include:

• Street Sweeping
• Rain Gardens
• Community Involvement
• Adopt-a-Drain

Learn more about how St. Cloud works to protect water by visiting the Stormwater Utility page or the Source Water Protection page.  

Be Part of the Solution

• Manage household hazardous waste properly (cleaners, paints, vehicle fluids, fertilizers, pesticides, etc.) 
  1. Only purchase what you need
  2. Donate unused portions to friends or community organizations
  3. Recycle leftovers when possible
• Avoid dumping – Never dispose of unwanted chemicals down the sink, toilet or storm drain as it can end up in drinking water sources. Dispose of cleaners, medicines, oil/grease, etc. properly
• Clean up – Pick up after yourself and your pets
• Use alternative products – Avoid using products that may contain harmful materials such as perfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS)
  1. Use cast iron or stainless-steel pots and pans instead of non-stick pots and pans
• Conserve water - Use water efficiently to ease the burden on water sources and save money
  1. Repair leaks
  2. Use a rain barrel
  3. Install low flow devices to toilets and showers
  4. Wash full loads of laundry and dishes
• Limit use of fertilizers and pesticides – Reduce the amount of materials used on your lawn or consider natural alternatives
• Participate in volunteer activities - Attend events such as removing invasive plants and replanting natives, stormwater drain stenciling or Adopt-A-Drain, rain barrel workshops, litter cleanups, etc. 
• Report any spills, illegal dumping, or suspicious activity

Everyone can be part of the source water solution. When we address water quality concerns at the source instead of just at the treatment plant, the natural environment benefits. Plants, trees and animals all thrive alongside clean water!