The best way to prevent expensive clean up of source water (groundwater and surface water that eventually becomes our drinking water) is to prevent its contamination. The old adage "an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure" applies to surface water.

Responsible actions by industrial, commercial, and governmental sites play a key role in preventing its contamination. However, there are several simple things that members of the general public can do to protect this valuable resource. They include the following:

• Reduce the amount of water used — avoid waste.
• Use biodegradable household products.
• Dispose of household products properly.
• Limit use of fertilizer and pesticides. Avoid runoff of these products.
• Dispose of used motor oil at a recycling center.
• Dispose of hazardous chemicals at a reclamation center (recycling center).
• Avoid watering your lawn during a drought.
• Fix leaky pipes and faucets.
• Do not throw items out of your car window — most eventually end up in a storm drain.
• Encourage others to protect our groundwater.

For more information: http://www.epa.gov/safewater/protector EPA Drinking Water Hotline at (800) 426-4791