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For decades, Lake Whatcom Watershed residents have been doing their part to help protect the Lake for future generations.  Cars emit, deposit, and transport various pollutants as they move throughout the watershed.  A number of these pollutants can be transported to streams and the Lake as stormwater runoff. You can help the Lake by remembering to take these simple actions when on the road or maintaining your vehicle at home.
 
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A well tuned car burns less fuel, releases fewer pollutants, and can keep your car running up to 50% longer. Inspect and repair leaks to help protect the Lake.
Use a commercial car wash, whenever possible. If you do wash your car at home, do so on the lawn or on a gravel driveway where the soils can absorb most of the rinse water rather than on the pavement where the water runs into the nearest storm drain and then into the lake. 
Rather than making a separate trip to town for groceries, pick up your groceries on the way home from work, school, or when running other errands. Combine trips, carpool, and use alternative transport to help protect the Lake.
It’s best to park the car and walk into a restaurant, coffee shop, or bank rather than idling in the drive-thru lane. Avoid unnecessary idling to help protect the Lake from excess exhaust pollution.