Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is a watershed?
A: A watershed is an area of land that captures rain by surface and groundwater drainages and sends it into creeks and streams. The creeks merge, becoming larger as the water moves downstream. The creek system eventually drains into a bay or ocean. Watersheds provide many important functions, such as storing water in wetlands and floodplains that naturally filter out the pollutants found in urban storm water runoff.
Q: What are the problems currently affecting the health of the Arcade Creek Watershed?
A: Arcade Creek is home to a wealth of wildlife and native plants, such as great blue heron, snowy egret, red-shouldered hawk, Northwestern pond turtle, beavers, river otters, oak trees and native grasses. However, the health of the Watershed is threatened by non-native species, urban development and run off pollution from roads, parking lots and lawns. Because Arcade Creek Watershed runs through an urban area, it's more susceptible to the negative affects of these types of impacts. That's why it's important residents learn to take steps to prevent and avoid pollution, dispose of household waste responsibly, and participate in creek-cleaning activities.
Q: What types of pollutants are found in the storm drain system that can get into local waterways?
A: Heavy metals, paint thinner and paint products, motor oil, pesticides, fertilizers, human and animal feces, antifreeze, and dead animals are a few examples of the pollutants typically found in the storm drain system that can potentially get into the watershed system. All of these materials can negatively affect the health of the wildlife and surrounding habitat.
Q: I have paint and paint thinners at home that need to be thrown away. How can I safely dispose of them?
A: If you live within Sacramento County you can take your household hazardous waste materials to the North Area Recovery Station located at 4550 Roseville Road. For more information please call (916) 875-5555. If you live within the City of Sacramento you can take your household hazardous waste materials to the Sacramento Recycling and Transfer Station located at 8491 Fruitridge Road. For more information please call (916) 379-0500. For more information on how to safely dispose of solid waste and hazardous materials, please refer to the Watershed Management page.
Q: What can I do to get more involved in clean-up and preservation of the Arcade Creek Watershed?
A: Many cities and counties have watershed restoration and preservation programs in place that welcome community involvement. For more information on watershed groups, restoration efforts, and how you can get involved, please visit our Watershed Management page for links to watershed-related Web sites.
Q: How can I arrange to have trees removed or trimmed that are affecting the creek behind my home?
A: The cities of Sacramento and Citrus Heights and the County of Sacramento all have tree maintenance and permitting departments that can assist you in maintaining your trees and shrubbery. Please refer to the links on the Watershed Management page for more information.
