Stormwater - Fertilizers and Pesticides

Fertilizers and pesticides are among the many common stormwater pollutants that can degrade water quality.  Stormwater runoff from yard maintenance has been found to contain high concentrations of fertilizers and pesticides.  When pesticides wash into local waters they poison fish and contaminate the water.  Fertilizers contains nutrients such as phosphorus and nitrogen, that fertilize aquatic algae blooms and promote bacterial growth which can degrade water quality. 

Your Regulatory Requirements - County of San Diego, Stormwater Ordinance

What can I do?
Use Best Management Practices (BMPs)! 
BMPs are techniques or controls used to prevent or reduce the discharge of pollutants, such as fertilizers and pesticides, into the stormwater conveyance system also known as the storm drain system.  Integrated Pest Management or (IPM) is an excellent way to handle unwanted insects.

Helpful Information and Documents:
General Stormwater BMP Brochure
Safe Use & Disposal of Pesticides brochure
CASQA BMP Handbooks
Pollutant Impacts on Water Quality
San Diego County Wastewater Agencies 

Tips: Avoid over watering after fertilizer application.
          Use water sparingly and avoid over-watering.
          Use less-toxic alternatives.

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