Homeowners can actually create more pollution on small parcels of land than many farms
create over hundreds of acres. With more than 30 million acres of lawn in the United States,
watershed-friendly lawn maintenance does make a difference!
Minimize Chemical Use
- Use organic alternatives to reduce the harmful effects from herbicides, pesticides,
and chemical fertilizers.
- Test your soil for nutrient levels (with kits available from local garden centers) and use
only the amount of fertilizer necessary.
- Don't fertilize before a rainstorm.
- Leave grass clipping on the lawn to help feed the lawn and reduce the amount of
fertilizer needed.
- Compost lawn clippings, leaves, coffee grounds and vegetable scraps for easy, free
and fast soil supplement.
Reduce Maintenance
- Don't mow lawns to less than 2 inches longer grass develops a healthier root system,
shades out weeds, keeps the soil cool, and reduces the need for watering.
- Create a low-maintenance yard by planting ground covers, shrubs and trees instead of lawn.
- Mulch planting beds to reduce the need for watering and to control weeds, thereby
reducing the need for chemicals.
- Go native- native plants provide better wildlife food and habitat and are easier to maintain.
Landscape for Wildlife
- Share your yard with wildlife. Choose plants that provide food
and shelter for birds, beneficial insects, and other animals.
Watershed-Friendly Home Care
- Care for your car to prevent oil or other chemical leaks.
- Pump septic systems at least every 3 years.
- Properly dispose of paints, cleaners and other chemicals.
- Limit the use of toxic products inside and outside your home.
Conserve water
- Fix leaky toilets and faucets.
- Wash full loads of clothes and dishes.
- Install low-flow shower heads, water saving toilets and other efficient appliances.
- Turn off the faucet when you brush your teeth, shave, etc.
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