WATER QUALITY REPORTS
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WHAT SPECIAL WATER QUALITY PRECAUTIONS ARE NECESSARY FOR FISH OWNERS?
Chloramines: Chloramines must be removed from any water used in fish tanks or ponds. Chloramines are toxic to saltwater and freshwater fish, aquatic reptiles, turtles, and amphibians, and can be harmful even at low levels. This includes water used in lobster tanks at grocery stores and restaurants, as well as fish containers at bait shops. Chloramines may be removed by using a water conditioner specifically designed to neutralize chloramines or by using a granular activated carbon filter. Pet supply professionals can provide additional guidance on appropriate treatment products.
Chlorine: Chlorine, unlike chloramines, dissipates (evaporates) relatively quickly from water; however, it can be harmful to fish and other aquatic life. Water containing chlorine should be treated or allowed sufficient time to dissipate before being used in fish tanks or ponds.
Ammonia: Ammonia can be toxic to fish and other aquatic organisms. While fish naturally produce small amounts of ammonia as a metabolic by-product, additional ammonia may be released when chloramines are chemically neutralized. Although low levels of ammonia may be tolerated for short periods, elevated concentrations can be harmful. Commercial products designed to remove or neutralize ammonia are available at pet supply stores. Biological filtration systems, natural zeolites, and pH control methods can also help reduce the toxic effects of ammonia.
IS PRESCRIPTION DRUG DISPOSAL AFFECTING OUR WATER QUALITY?
In the past, consumers were told to dispose of their unwanted or expired medications by flushing them down the toilet. Recent studies have shown that many drugs pass largely untreated through wastewater treatment plants. These untreated medications affect fish and other aquatic wildlife. Disposing of unused medications by putting them in the trash is also not recommended as once in the landfills they can leak and potentially affect local groundwater.
The following are some of the ways to safely dispose of your unused medications:
- Contact your local Sheriff’s office or Police Department to determine whether a drug disposal bin is available in the station lobby.
- Check with your local city or county to ask about medication disposal programs.
- Contact your local pharmacist to determine whether they offer medication take-back services.
- The U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) sponsors National Drug Take-Back Days. For information on scheduled events, please visit the DEA National Drug Take-Back Day Program.
- According to the Harvard Health Publishing, Medication Disposal, if medications must be placed in the trash: keep them in their original child-resistant, watertight containers; leave the label on but remove or obscure personal information to protect privacy; add water to pills and a solidifying material, such as flour, to liquids; and conceal the containers by placing them in empty margarine tubs or paper bags before disposal.
