THE WAY OF WATERWestchester’s Watersheds

By John MancusoGreenburgh Nature Center

• 97% of the water on earth is SALT WATER

• 2% of the water on earth is GLACIAL ICE

• 1% of the water on earth is FRESHWATER

In Westchester County, like in all places, water is vital to every living thing.

Where do we get our water from?

WATERSHEDS

The New York City drinking water supply system serves as a water supply for eight million New York City Residents and approximately one million upstate residents.

In Westchester County approximately 85% of total County residents obtain their drinking water from the Croton Watershed.

The area of land that drains into a particular water body

Water usually drains through streams, rivers and porous rocks

As water flows, it picks up and carries particulate and dissolved materials

WE ALL DO!

Watersheds are extremely important. They provide us

with our drinking water, recreational activitiesand aesthetic beauty.

Aquifers(underground lakes)

Reservoirs

Hudson, Bronxand other Rivers

Lakes, ponds and springs

Atlantic Ocean

BRONX RIVER

Precipitation

Groundwater flow

Surface runoff

Evaporation

Vapor transport

Transpiration

Percolation

Always Conserve and Reuse Water Wisely

Use low-flow faucets, shower heads, reduced-flow toilet flushing equipment, and water saving appliances such as energy star dish and clothes washers. Repair leaking faucets, toilets, and pumps. Do not over-water your lawn or garden.

• Nutrients

• Petroleum products

• Sediment

• Chemicals & metals

• Thermal pollution

Source: Maine DEP

Use Natural Systems to Limit Pesticide & Fertilizer Use

Over-fertilization is a common problem, and the excess can leach into ground water or contaminate rivers or lakes. Leave lawn clippings on your lawn so that nutrients in the clippings are recycled and less yard waste goes to disposal. Compost yard trimmings and use to naturally fertilize the lawn. Dispose of excess pesticides at hazardous waste collection centers.

HUDSON RIVER

Dispose of Pet Waste Properly Pet waste contains nutrients and pathogens that can contaminate surface water. Scoop up waste and flush it down the toilet or seal the waste in a plastic bag and throw it in the garbage.

Croton River—183 sq. mi.

Lower Hudson—67 sq. mi.

Lower LI Sound—65 sq. mi.

Bronx River—48 sq. mi.

Upper LI Sound—45 sq. mi.

Upper Hudson—43 sq. mi.

Capture and Reuse Rainfall

Never allow roof gutters to drain directly to the street or storm sewer. Allow drainage from the roof to flow over your lawn or capture in a barrel for reuse.

TITICUS RESERVOIR

Maintain All Vehicles-Eliminate Leaks and Spills Recycle used oil and antifreeze by taking them to service stations and other recycling centers. Never put used oil or other chemicals down storm drains or in drainage ditches.

• A one-inch storm will result in over 695 million gallons of water in a 40-square mile watershed.

CROTON RIVER

Wash Your Car on the Lawn-Or Direct the Water to the Lawn

Wash your car only when necessary; Alternatively, go to a commercial carwash that uses water efficiently and disposes of runoff properly.

LONG ISLAND SOUND

Recycle and Dispose of Household Chemicals Properly

Many household chemicals are toxic, buy wisely. Use products labeled, non-toxic biodegradable and non-phosphorus. Take unwanted household chemicals to hazardous waste collection centers; do not pour down the drain or on the ground.

CROSS RIVER RESERVOIR

Westchester’s watersheds are in our hands.

Together we can keep them safefor everyone.