“Go Green with Lawn Care”

There has been a trend across this country to “go green”.  But when it comes to lawn care and maintenance, there are still guidelines to follow for a healthy lawn and to protect the environment.  A well-established lawn absorbs stormwater, decreases runoff, and helps to prevent soil erosion.  But remember that too much fertilizer and pesticides can pollute our streams and rivers and harm animals, plants, our pets, and even people.

• Leave grass clippings on the lawn.  They will return nutrients and water to your soil.

·    Choose the right time to fertilize and apply pesticides.  Fall is the best time to fertilize.  Never apply just before it rains and make sure you use the right amount. 

·    If you spill fertilizer onto the driveway or sidewalk, sweep it up.  Don’t wash it into the storm drain with a garden hose!

If too much fertilizer reaches streams and lakes, it can lead to increased algae growth.  The algae can cause bad odors and use up oxygen in the water that fish need to survive.  Do your part to protect Lake Erie!  For more information contact the Lake County Stormwater Management Department.  www.lakecountyohio.gov/smd