Steps to reduce water pollution Published Oct. 7, 2014 By 10th Civil Engineer Squadron U.S. AIR FORCE ACADEMY, Colo. -- Academy Airmen and their families can take a few easy steps to reduce storm water pollution and cut cleanup costs, said a 10th Civil Engineer Squadron official. Storm water, generated when precipitation permeates the soil or becomes surface runoff, can be contaminated with pollutants, chemicals, pathogens and sediment that can affect streams, lakes and groundwater here, said Elizabeth Wade, the 10th CES environmental chief. "It's more costly to clean the water if it's more heavily polluted and taking these steps keeps our stream cleaner for wildlife to drink out of," she said. · Decrease the use of fertilizer, pesticides or fungicides, which can leak into storm water sewer systems. · Dispose of trash in a designated waste container with a secure lid and recycle. Cardboard, paper, aluminum, glass and plastic recycling containers are just south of the Main Exchange here. · Dispose of motor oil, paint, cleaner and antifreeze at the Academy's Hazardous Waste Facility, building 8125. The facility is open 8 a.m.-4 p.m., Wed. and Thurs. The facility's staff can be reached at 333-3852, Wed. and Thurs. El Paso County's household hazardous waste drop-off facility is at 3255 Akers Drive, Colorado Springs. · Don't wash or work on your car at home; take it to the 10th Force Support Squadron's auto hobby shop or to an off-base auto shop. · Take care to avoid releasing pollutants into the environment when performing mission support duties.