Best Management Practices

Best Management Practices (BMPs) can help businesses and industries protect water quality. Many businesses can take steps to ensure that future generations have clean water.

Veterinarian Clinic and Kennel (including pharmaceutical disposal information) - learn how poor veterinary clinic and kennel practices negatively impact our water & steps you can take to decrease these impacts
Landscape, Lawncare, and Garden - suggestions for sensible landscaping practices in Chatham County
EPA Water-Smart Landscapes Manual and Photo Gallery - having a beautiful yard doesn’t have to mean using a lot of water or spending a lot of money. The EPA’s WaterSense program can help you take some of the guesswork out of keeping a healthy yard while using less water
GA EPD Dry Cleaning Handbook - this guide was prepared to help dry cleaners comply with the state and federal environmental regulations as they relate to the industry
Xeriscaping - this seven-step approach to landscaping and gardening reduces or eliminates the need for supplemental water from irrigation
Riparian Buffers in Your Backyard - natural areas edging up to waterbodies serve important habitat and water quality functions. This brochure can assist you with most or all of your riparian buffer questions for these important habitats in Chatham County.
Pest Control Companies -
Auto Repair/Maintenance Facilities - tips for storing, washing, and maintaining equipment and vehicles
Gas Stations - these practices will help prevent polluted water and other materials from flowing into the street, gutter, and storm drain
Car Washing - clean water tips for washing your car at home

Green Infrastructure Practices

Green infrastructure uses vegetation and natural processes to treat and manage stormwater. Green infrastructure reduces the need for stormwater conveyance and ensures that runoff is cleaner. You can learn more about green infrastructure techniques in the Georgia Coastal Stormwater Supplement (CSS).

Report Water Violations

To report a water violation or an environmental emergency requiring immediate attention, such as a spill or chemical release, contact Georgia Environmental Protection Division at (800) 241-4113.

Other important numbers for GA EPD may be found here.

Other resources to report water pollution or violations:
Chatham County Environmental Health Office - (912) 356-2160
Chatham County-Savannah Metropolitan Planning Commission - (912) 651-1440