Water Protection at Home
Water is one of our most precious resources, and protecting it starts with simple actions you can take at home. Explore ways you can contribute to cleaner waterways and water conservation in San Mateo County.
Water Resources for San Mateo County Residents
Drop by drop, we can all take part in protecting our waterways.
Pet Waste and Stormwater
Pet waste is a significant source of pollution that can impact both human health and the environment. When pet waste is left on the ground, it can be washed into storm drains by rain or runoff, eventually reaching streams, creeks, the San Francisco Bay, and the Pacific Ocean without any treatment. To prevent stormwater pollution, remember to pick up after your pet and dispose of waste properly in a sealed bag and trash bin.
Join us in our commitment to cleaner communities and healthier waterways. By pledging to scoop the poop, you help prevent pet waste from polluting our environment and protect public health.
Green Infrastructure
Green infrastructure uses natural systems such as vegetation and soil to manage stormwater, reduce runoff, and filter pollutants. If you’re looking to landscape your yard, consider replacing a traditional lawn with a rain garden that incorporates native plants and flowers.
Water Conservation
Conserving water is essential for ensuring clean and reliable water for all residents. Simple water-saving practices can make an impact. Interested in conducting a water audit in your home? The Check-It-Out! Home Energy and Water Saving Toolkit is available for checkout at San Mateo County libraries and includes useful tools such as low-flow showerheads and faucet aerators to help you improve water efficiency.
Simple Steps to Protect Our Water Resources
Discover ways to keep our waterways clean.
The Latest News & Events
27
Learn how easy and fun it is to recycle your fruit and vegetable scraps, leaves, and plant cuttings into compost in these free workshops! These workshops teach composting options suitable for those with or without a backyard. Apartment dwellers welcome! Compost provides valuable nutrients for your garden soil, helps retain moisture, which saves water, prevents erosion, loosens clay and compacted soils for better drainage, and suppresses weeds. It is rewarding to know you are turning what some consider waste into precious organic material for your garden.
Discounts and rebates for backyard compost and worm compost bins will be distributed to San Mateo County residents!
COMPOST WORKSHOP
Date: June 27, 2026
Time: 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Location: Foster City Community Garden
Register here.