A new wave of environmental action is underway in Harris County with the launch of the Regional Public Education Services Program, led by the Harris County Flood Control District (HCFCD). This initiative tackles water pollution and flood risks by empowering the community with knowledge, and calling for shared responsibility.

Flooding isn’t just about rising water levels. It brings with it toxic runoff: oil, chemicals, pet waste, grease, and trash, all of which flow from our streets into storm drains and straight into our bayous and Galveston Bay without treatment.

This program provides clear, practical guidance to help both residents and businesses prevent pollution and protect our waterways. Here’s some of the critical information it offers:

1. Keep Our Bayous Running Clean

Clean water starts with daily habits. Pollution from dog waste, yard debris, trash, and household chemicals clogs storm drains and worsens flooding.

Do your part:

• Pick up and trash dog waste.
• Bag leaves and grass clippings, don’t blow them into the streets.
• Dispose of oil, paint, and hazardous waste at approved facilities.
• Never pour anything into storm drains.

2. Be Smart About Fertilizer Use

Over-fertilizing is like dumping chemicals into the bayou. It causes runoff that pollutes drinking water and kills aquatic life.

Best practices:

• Use only what’s needed, more is not better.
• Follow instructions or test your soil first.
• Don’t fertilize before rain or overwater.
• Ensure your lawn service follows eco-friendly guidelines.

3. Don’t Let Fats, Oils & Grease (FOG) Destroy Our Drains

FOG builds up in pipes, causing backups and pollution. What goes down your sink can end up in our bayous.

How to prevent it:

• Bring used oil to Household Hazardous Waste centers.
• Seal cooled grease in containers and toss it in the trash.
• Scrape food scraps into the trash before rinsing.
• Use sink strainers to catch solids.

4. Yes, Pet Poop Is Pollution

Left on the ground, pet waste washes into waterways and spreads harmful bacteria.

Clean it right:

• Pick up after your pet—everywhere, every time.
• Dispose in sealed bags or flush it (without the bag).
• Don’t compost it or leave it near storm drains.
• Bury waste safely or install a pet waste system.

5. Restaurants: Protect Our Waterways

Food businesses play a major role in preventing pollution. Grease and trash mismanagement harm both sewer systems and the environment.

What to do:

• Maintain grease traps and never pour FOG down drains.
• Wash mats and tools indoors using mop sinks.
• Keep dumpsters clean, covered, and properly plugged.
• Train staff in responsible cleanup and disposal.

Enforcement is More Important than Ever

The Texas Water Code makes it crystal clear: water pollution is a crime. Violators can face fines of up to $100,000 and imprisonment for up to five years. Dumping oil or hazardous waste isn’t just irresponsible, it’s illegal.

The Regional Public Education Services Program doesn’t just point fingers, it hands out tools, whether you’re a homeowner, a dog owner, a restaurant manager, or a weekend mechanic, you have a direct role in the health of our environment.

Explore the program and educational materials here: HCFCD Public Education Resources