Welcome to Skagit County

August 8th, 2011

Car Wash Kits available for use: reduce water pollution and protect our local waters

SKAGIT COUNTY - Stormwater is a major threat to local water quality and Puget Sound's ecosystem health. In an effort to help improve stormwater quality and ensure cleaner waters, Skagit County has partnered with the Skagit Conservation District, Skagit Marine Resources Committee, Northwest Straits, and the Washington Department of Ecology to provide Car Wash Kits to catch polluted water and prevent it from entering our local waters.

"There's nothing wrong with washing cars; it's just how and where it's done that can make it problematic," said Mike See, Skagit County Stormwater Coordinator. "Untreated soap, dirt, and oil from washed cars flow into storm drains and into local waters. The phosphates and other chemicals carried in the wash-water harm fish, wildlife, plants, and water quality." Car Wash Kits, however, capture wash-water before it enters the stormwater system and redirect it to an appropriate treatment facility, such as a grassy area or a sanitary sewer system, before releasing it into local waters.

Car Wash Kits are available to borrow from the following locations: