Ozaukee County Land & Water Management

08/28/2026

08/05/2026

Only rain belongs down the drain! If any substance other than water enters a storm drain or local waterway, it is considered an illicit discharge. Signs may include an unusual odor, cloudy water, foam, suds, oil sheens, and/or waterflow during dry weather. If you notice these signs, contact your local Department of Public Works (DPW) to report the spill. If your community does not have a DPW, please call the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources’ spill hotline at 1-800-943-0003. Visit www.respectourwaters.org to learn more.

We all live in a Watershed. Contrary to the name, a watershed includes both land and water and is named for the waterbody into which the rainfall hitting that area of land will flow into and affect. Southeastern Wisconsin rivers, lakes and streams face major challenges from non-point pollution and a...

07/06/2026

Enjoying your swimming pool this summer? Be stormwater smart if draining an outdoor pool in the fall. Chlorine keeps your pool clean, but it is toxic to fish and wildlife if it enters our waterways. Follow these simple tips to protect our waterways when draining your pool.

We all live in a Watershed. Contrary to the name, a watershed includes both land and water and is named for the waterbody into which the rainfall hitting that area of land will flow into and affect. Southeastern Wisconsin rivers, lakes and streams face major challenges from non-point pollution and a...

06/22/2026

Did you know this week (June 22nd - June 28th) is Pollinator Week?! 🐛

It's a great time to recognize the important role that bees, butterflies, moths, beetles, hummingbirds, and other pollinators play in our environment and food supply. Pollinators help many flowers, fruits, and vegetables grow, and supporting local pollinators is an important way to protect healthy ecosystems here in our community. Residents can help by planting native flowers that bloom from spring through fall, avoiding or reducing pesticide use, and providing clean, shallow water sources. It is also especially helpful to include host plants for butterflies, which give caterpillars the food they need to grow. Examples of some butterfly host plants include: milkweed for monarchs, dill and parsley for black swallowtails, violets for fritillaries, and oak trees, which support many butterfly and moth species. Even small actions in home gardens, yards, and public spaces can make a meaningful difference for our pollinators!

Happy Pollinator Week! 🦋

06/15/2026

A big THANK YOU to everyone in the community who supported and participated in this year’s Native Plant Sale! Your enthusiasm and commitment to planting natives are making a real difference by supporting bees, butterflies, and other important pollinators. Every native plant added to a yard, garden, or landscape helps strengthen our local ecosystem, improve biodiversity, and create healthier spaces for wildlife and people alike. We truly appreciate your support and your role in building a more resilient and vibrant environment for Ozaukee County! Thank you!

06/01/2026

Chemicals found in automobiles can enter our waterways via storm drains if not properly handled. Contaminants such as motor oil and antifreeze pose severe human and environmental health hazards. When performing maintenance on your vehicle at home, do so responsibly by following these guidelines. Be sure to properly dispose of all waste chemicals at your local hazardous waste disposal site. Visit respectourwaters.org for more information.

05/27/2026

Land and Water would like to send a few Ozaukee resident students to Conservation Camp for both Middle School and High School.

More details can be found here
https://www.ozaukeecounty.gov/1940/Education There is a link for registering to either camp on the webpage. Help spread the word by sharing with friends, family or neighbors.

The only requirement is to fill out an essay to a simple question as to why the student wants to go to conservation camp. This form is on the webpage. The deadline for either camp is May 29th instructions are on the form. Good luck to any students trying to get to camp.

Remember your student must be attending a school in Ozaukee County. Good luck!

Click here to learn about some educational opportunities.

05/12/2026

Attention Ozaukee County Residents, an E Cycle event is set for June 13 at 1777 W Grand Avenue Port Washington beginning at 9 am - 12 pm. This is a chance to get rid of older unwanted electronics and collect non perishable items for the Port Washington Food Pantry. See below for more information.

05/05/2026

It was a record year for Clean Sweep participants and Hazardous Waste collected! Thank you for helping our annual recycling day run smoothly, and thanks to our partners with Veolia!

Help us to maintain an efficient Clean Sweep, by visiting the link below or by QR code, to complete our survey!

https://www.ozaukeecounty.gov/2577/Clean-Sweep-Program

05/04/2026

Having a healthy garden doesn’t mean eliminating all insects and pests. Please use pesticides as a last resort, and if using, do so with caution. Pesticides are chemical substances that help manage pests, but pose harm to people, animals, and the environment. If using, DO NOT apply on paved surfaces, near storm drains, before it rains, or during high winds. Help us prevent stormwater pollution and keep your community healthy by following these tips to use pesticides responsibly.