Car Care for Clean Water

Washing cars over grass gives the ground a chance to filter some pollutants out of runoff before they reach a waterway.
Did you know that cars and trucks can be sources of water pollution?
- Brake dust
- Coolant and antifreeze
- Motor oil
- Fluid leaks
If it rains and these particles and fluids get washed away, they get into our creeks and water supplies. And when people wash their cars or trucks outside, this stuff mixes with the soap suds and rinse water, creating a cocktail that is toxic to fish, frogs, and other aquatic creatures.
Visit our web page on auto care to learn what you can do to keep your car AND the environment tuned up!
Clean water begins with you and me!

Bolin Creek near Buck Taylor Mill
An estimated two-thirds of North Carolina’s water pollution is caused by polluted runoff, also called stormwater pollution. This runoff comes from our streets, lawns, and rooftops. It carries dirt, oil, fertilizer, pet waste, and many other pollutants directly to our streams, lakes, and rivers.
Our waterways provide drinking water, recreation, and fish and wildlife habitat. These uses are threatened by the harmful effects of stormwater pollution.
You can help! Explore this website to learn simple things you can do to help protect our water resources.
Watershed Facts
The Tar-Pamlico River Basin has 2,335 miles of rivers and streams.
Did you know?
Septic systems must be checked every year and pumped every 3 to 5 years. Many homeowners with septic tanks don’t know they have them!
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For More Information
Contact your local government.