Tip 3: Your Lawn
6 Resources
If you apply too many lawn fertilizers or pesticides, especially before a heavy rain storm, a lot of it may be washed into nearby storm drains and then our waterways and water bodies without treatment.
Once in the water, fertilizers promote growth and decay of algae that use up oxygen, which fish need to survive. Pesticides in stormwater runoff directly affect the health of aquatic organisms and human health if ingested.
Since organic matter contains nutrients, raking autumn leaves or grass clippings into gutters or streets for municipal collection or into the storm-sewer system also adds nutrients and oxygen-demanding substances to stormwater. Also, if a storm drain becomes clogged with debris, the system can become blocked and overflow causing flooding, damaging property. Poorly maintained garden beds or lawns also can be a source of sediment.
Fact:
Clean water is everybody's business.
What you
Can
Do
- Use fertilizer sparingly or not at all
- Mulch when you mow & leave grass clippings on lawn to naturally fertilize
- If possible, compost leaves and yard waste
- Native plants like to grow in your yard, and do not take much work or water to flourish
- Keep natural vegetation alongside streams and ponds to trap excess fertilizers and sediment before they can reach the waterbody
Be In
The
Know
Below is a list of resources to support stormwater conservation for your lawn.