Landscaping and gardening can be major contributors to storm water pollution. Soils, yard wastes, over-watering, and garden chemicals become part of the urban runoff mix that winds its way through streets, gutters and storm drains before entering our river tributaries. Over-watering lawns and using sprinklers that function improperly not only waste water, but increase pollutants that flow into storm drains. Chemicals are washed off lawns and landscaped areas killing insects, poisoning fish, and contaminate ground and surface water. Improper application of fertilizer can cause an algal bloom. Leaves, grass clippings and tree trimmings that are swept or blown into the street and gutter also cause storm water pollution. These wastes clog catch basins, increasing the risk of flooding on your street, and carry lawn chemicals into the river.

1. General Landscaping Tips
   • Protect stockpiles and materials from wind and rain by storing them under tarps or secured plastic sheeting.
   • Schedule grading and excavation projects for dry weather.
   • Use temporary check dams or ditches to divert runoff away from storm drains.
   • Prevent erosion by planting fast-growing annual and perennial grasses. Grass blades reduce the erosive effects of rain drops and the roots bind the soil.


2. Garden and Lawn Maintenance
   • Do not over water lawns or gardens. Conserve water by using irrigation practices such as drip irrigation, soaker hoses, or micro-spray systems.
   • Do not blow or rake leaves into the street, gutter or storm drains.
   • Compost the clippings at home and use the compost around your plants.
   • Use organic or non-toxic fertilizers.
   • Do not over fertilize and do not fertilize near ditches, streams. or other water bodies.
   • Store pesticides, fertilizers, and other chemicals in a covered area to prevent runoff.


3. Consider These Pesticide Alternatives
   • The "chemicals-only" approach to pest control is only a temporary fix. A more common sense approach is needed for a long-term solution. It’s called physical controls which include:
   • Caulking holes
   • Hand picking
   • Barriers
   • Traps


4. Safe Substitutes for Pest Control
   • Garden Aphids and Mites:
     Mix 1 tablespoon of liquid soap and 1 cup of vegetable oil. Add 1 teaspoon of the mixture to a cup of water and spray. (Oil may harm vegetable plants in the cabbage family).
   • Caterpillars:
     When caterpillars are eating, apply products containing Bacillus thuringiensis to leaves.
   • Ants:
     Place boric acid dust or hydramethylnon baits in problem areas, cracks and insect walkways. Be sure it is inaccessible to children and pets (it is a mild poison).
   • Roaches:
     Apply boric acid dust to cracks and entry points (see ants above). Place bay leaves on pantry shelves.


5. If You Must Use Pesticides...
   • Use a pesticide that is specifically designed to control your pest. The insect should be listed on the label. Approximately 90% of the insects on your lawn and garden are not harmful.
   • Read labels! Use only as directed. In their zeal to control the problem, many gardeners use pesticides at over 20 times the rate farmers do.


6. Pesticide Disposal
   • Household toxics- such as pesticides, cleansers, and motor oil- can pollute our streams and river and poison groundwater if disposed of in storm drains or gutters.
   • Rinse empty pesticide containers and use rinse water as you would the product.

A smart yard is in balance with the local environment for the benefit of both people and our ecosystem. You can participate in the program by learning about sustainable practices for healthy landscapes, setting goals, and adopting recommended practices.

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Please choose native plants!