Most of us wash our clothes, scour our sinks and wash cars without much thought of how our behavior might contribute to the problem of nonpoint source pollution in our lakes, streams and rivers.

We think our use of chemicals couldn't hurt. We might think pollution problems lie in the hands of big industry or large municipalities. Nonpoint source pollution is one of the biggest problems in our urban areas and affects our water quality.

Nonpoint source pollution comes from many different sources. It is usually associated with rainfall runoff moving over through the ground, carrying natural and man-made pollutants into lakes, steams, wetlands, estuaries, coastal waters and underground drinking water.

Some of these pollutants might take days, months or even years to break down, or they might not break down at all and stay suspended in our waterways.

Some pollutants are:

n Detergents and cleaning agents — When we put detergent in the washing machine or wash our cars, some of these compounds add phosphates to water resources through wastewater or through water runoff into storm drains.

• Septic tanks — Older or improperly maintained tanks might leak or leach pollutants into surrounding ground and surface water.

• Petroleum products — Paint thinners and petroleum byproducts poured on the ground leach into groundwater and cause polluted runoff. Vehicles might lose fluids such as antifreeze, grease and motor oil on streets and parking lots, where they will eventually wash into storm drains when it rains.

• Lawns and garden waste — Leaves and other yard waste raked into streets and storm drains can overload streams and lakes with nutrients and debris, clog storm drains and eventually cause flooding. Overuse of pesticides, herbicides and fertilizers can pollute groundwater.

• Pet waste — If left on the ground, washed or dumped into storm drains or bodies of water, it might spread bacteria, parasites and viruses.

It is very easy to overuse or misuse chemicals around homes and yards. Homeowners can be more conscientious when cleaning by using nonphosphate soaps and detergents, as well as cutting down on the amount used.

We must all rethink the "more is better" concept and read directions on containers — from the disinfectants and cleaners we use to the fertilizers we apply to our lawns.

Septic systems should be inspected and maintained, and we should not add extra chemicals. Also, pump them out every three to five years.

When planting, use latex-based products. Recycle unused products or donate them to charity if you are not going to used them soon.

Composting is a wonderful way to recycle yard and garden waste. Great fertilizer can be created from compost.

Grass clippings can be left on your lawn and allowed to naturally decay. Pet waste should be collected and flushed or buried, but never composted.

Ron Fodor is district manager of the Butler County Conservation District.