Lawn Care

Lawn care poses a significant threat to our water resources. Runoff from lawns can include everything from grass clipping and pet waste to pesticides and fertilizers.

Here are some simple tips to help you manage this threat.

  • Keep leaves, grass clippings and other debris away from storm drains, gutters and waterways. These outlets drain directly into lakes, streams and rivers and can contribute to harmful algae blooms and fish kills.
  • Run your mower with the vent closed. Clippings left on the lawn can dramatically reduce the need for additional nitrogen (from fertilizers).
  • Choose plants, trees and other landscaping elements that will do well in your area with little watering.
  • Start a compost pile of leaves and grass clippings to serve as a naturally rich fertilizer and mulch. Otherwise, bag leaves and grass and sit out for pick-up.
  • Whenever possible, protect drinking water by using less pesticides and fertilizers.
  • Dispose of pesticides, containers and tanks according to directions on containers.
  • When filling lawnmowers, weed whackers, etc. immediately clean up and gasoline or oil spills.

Here is a link to two EPA YouTube videos on environmentally friendly ways to care for lawns—

Here is also an excellent source of information via the EPAs Greenscaping program.

Be sure to take our stormwater survey by clicking here!