Learn about pesticides, how they affect our watersheds and ecosystems, and what actions we can take to reduce pesticide pollution.

What are Pesticides?    

Pesticides are chemical substances designed to prevent, control, or eliminate unwanted organisms. Common categories of pesticides include herbicides (used to control weeds), insecticides (used to control insects), fungicides (used to prevent mold and plant disease), and rodenticides (used to control rodents). Pesticides are widely used in agriculture, landscaping, gardening, and some household products.

While pesticides can be effective tools for managing pests, many are toxic by design and may persist in the environment if not used properly. When applied outdoors, pesticides can move beyond their intended target and enter soil, air, and water systems.

Impacts of Pesticide Pollution

Pesticides can have harmful effects on both the environment and human health. During irrigation or rainfall events, pesticides applied to lawns, gardens, sidewalks, or agricultural fields can wash into stormwater runoff. Storm drains typically flow untreated to local creeks, wetlands, and the ocean, allowing pesticides to enter sensitive aquatic ecosystems.

Once in waterways, pesticides can be toxic to fish, aquatic invertebrates, birds, and beneficial insects such as pollinators. Even low concentrations can disrupt reproduction, behavior, and development of aquatic organisms. Pesticides may also accumulate in sediments and plants, leading to long-term impacts on ecosystems.

What can I do to Reduce Pesticide Pollution?

Residents can help reduce pesticide pollution by taking simple, preventative steps:

• Avoid chemical pesticides when possible and choose least toxic or non-chemical alternatives
• Correctly identify pests before treating and use products only when necessary
• Apply pesticides sparingly, follow all label directions, and avoid use before rain or watering
• Never apply pesticides near storm drains, sidewalks, or driveways
• Store pesticides safely and dispose of unused products at approved household hazardous waste facilities

The City of Goleta partners with the Our Water Our World (OWOW) program, along with other cities in Santa Barbara County, to promote the use of less‑toxic pest control products. By reducing pesticide use around homes and gardens and choosing safer alternatives, residents can help prevent pesticides and other pollutants from being washed into local waterways. The OWOW program provides helpful resources for identifying less‑toxic products and safer pest management practices.

For more information, please visit the OWOW website for eco-friendly options!