Every property within our community relies on private wells and groundwater resources for general household use and drinking water. Knowing this we should act accordingly by what chemicals we choose to use and distribute on our properties. Depending on the chemicals and products used, contamination can potentially impact drinking water quality, aquatic ecosystems, pets, wildlife, and overall public health. Groundwater contamination may affect not only the property where waste and chemicals have been dumped or applied but also neighboring wells and shared groundwater resources. Here is a list of general guidelines and resources that may be helpful.

• Residents should not intentionally use, discharge, dump, or dispose of hazardous chemicals in a manner that could create an environmental hazard. The HOA encourages all homeowners to use environmentally responsible products and practices and to properly store and dispose of chemicals through approved disposal programs. Here are some local resources for chemical and waste disposal:
  • O’Reilly – Conifer: Used motor oil, transmission fluid, power steering fluid, hydraulic fluid, gear oil, and compressor oil.
  • Rooney Road Recycling – Golden: Paints, cleaners, oils, and pesticides contain hazardous ingredients. Also accepts batteries, electronics, propane and other fuel canisters, etc. Here is a comprehensive list: https://www.rooneyroadrecycling.org/accepted-items/
• Residents are expected to use all chemicals responsibly, follow manufacturer instructions, comply with local, state, and federal regulations, and never intentionally apply or dispose of substances in a manner that could harm other residents, pets, wildlife, or groundwater resources.
• While pesticides and herbicides can be effective tools for controlling weeds, insects, and other pests, using these chemicals will inevitably migrate through soil and enter groundwater supplies and are thus discouraged.
• If some chemicals are being used, Residents are encouraged to carefully follow all manufacturer instructions, avoid applying chemicals before heavy rainfall, use the minimum effective amount necessary, and consider environmentally friendly alternatives whenever practical.

Protecting our community’s groundwater is a shared responsibility to help preserve safe general home use and drinking water and maintain a healthy environment.