“Fixing” fecal coliform contamination problems means each of us looking at what we do (or don’t do) on our property to prevent sewage, manure, or other sources from reaching public waters. Here are some important things you can do:

• Make sure your on site septic system is in good working order by having it checked (or inspected) every one to three years depending on what type of septic system you have. Contact the Skagit County Public Health Department at 360-336-9380 for details.

• Manage livestock so they can water away from a stream or lake. Need help figuring out an alternative? Call the Skagit Conservation District at 360-428-4313 for help.

• Protect the natural vegetation along streams and lakes … you may need to plant more. Vegetation slows & filters pollutants from runoff. Your Conservation District can help.

• Bag pet waste & put it in the garbage, not in the septic system where it can cause expensive problems.

• Safeguard manure piles from rain & surface runoff. The Skagit Conservation District can help.

• Use proper waste management when you are boating, fishing, hunting, hiking, & camping.

• Call the Spill Hotline if you see a spill or illegal dumping: 800-OILS-911.

The average horse generates 50 pounds of manure per day (that’s 8 tons per year not counting soiled bedding). This owner uses gravel, rubber mats, wood pellet bedding, interceptor drains, and frequent use of the dumping fork to prevent water pollution and improve compost quality. Composting manure is covered to prevent rain from carrying waste to surface water.