The Car-Wash Fundraiser is about as American as apple pie.  I don’t know of a student, boy/girl scout, or church group that hasn’t participated in one.  It’s a favorite way we like to raise money, not to mention just to have fun.  Sometimes I think it’s more about the fun than the “funds”.

So why are environmentalists trying to put a stop to this all American pastime?  It’s a particular hot issue here in the west where many feel that the run-off of soap and grime run into streams and poison the fish and wildlife.

The issue isn’t with commerical car wash facilities, since that water goes into the city’s sewer treatment system, but with the bucket and hose groups.  You see them in front of the church holding up hand made signs as you pass by!  They’re the ones being shut down.

Some cities are in the process of proposing a ban on washing your car in front of your home.  City officials have been known to say, “it is one of the biggest water-wasters and pollution generators.” (source:wall street journal)

People are mad at this ban and say it’s overblown and ridiculous!  One opponent is upset because if a dog does “it’s business” in front of his house then he can’t hose it off.  Of course, that’s the point!  Scoop it up and put it in the trash.  Why do people insist on using the water hose in front of their house as if it were a broom.  I see it ALL THE TIME!

Cities are proposing people change their habits and consider alternatives to water for their car-wash fundraisers, such as using waterless cleaners.  I even found online a steam cleaner for cars that uses one cup of water!  This is a hot topic that is going to make it’s way to the east coast soon, for the mean time someone needs to just hose down the naysayers!