A guide to a watershed friendly Thanksgiving

The Riverside County Flood Control and Water Conservation District advises that as people gear up for a delightful Thanksgiving feast, take a moment to show gratitude to the waterways that sustain us. Here are some tips to help protect the Riverside County environment to keep in mind:

• Opt for locally sourced, seasonal produce for your Thanksgiving spread. Supporting local farmers not only ensures fresher ingredients but also reduces the carbon footprint associated with long-distance transportation. Planning also helps save money by preventing over-purchasing.

• Aim to minimize food waste by planning portion sizes carefully. Leftovers can be shared or donated to local shelters, fostering a spirit of giving and community support.

• Cooking oil should never go down the drain. It can clog your drains and pipes and result in flooding. Instead, collect it in a sealed container and drop it off at a local Household Hazardous Waste center. This simple step can prevent clogs that don’t allow water to flow through to our waterways properly and protect our precious aquatic life.

• If you are looking to skip the dirty dishes, opt for reusable or compostable tableware instead of disposable options. It not only adds a touch of elegance to your gathering but also reduces the number of single-use plastics and paper products ending up in landfills.