Landscapers

Are Your Landscaping Practices Protecting Your Water?

Every lawn you care for is an opportunity to protect local streams and ponds. Today’s clients want landscaping that looks good AND protects the environment. Help lead the way with these water-friendly practices: 

Show Your Commitment 

I pledge to: 

  • Use phosphorus-free fertilizer (it’s the law!) 
  • Practice Integrated Pest Management to reduce the use of chemicals 
  • Dispose of yard waste at an approved site away from wetlands and storm drains 
  • Direct irrigation to plants, not pavement. 
  • Use native and drought-resistant plants to reduce chemicals and conserve water 

CLICK HERE TO TAKE THE PLEDGE

Follow these simple steps: 

  • Use phosphorus-free fertilizer unless a soil test shows it’s needed. It’s the law [link], and it prevents water pollution.
  • Keep yard waste away from water and wetlands. Grass and leaves can pollute the water by causing harmful algae and toxic bacteria to grow.  
  • Aim sprinklers at plants – not pavement.  Save water and prevent polluted runoff from entering the storm drain. 
  • Plant native drought-resistant species and use lawn alternatives. Native landscaping reduces maintenance and conserves water, especially during drought. 
  • Use Integrated Pest Management practices. Focus on pest prevention and use chemicals as a last resort. See this guide from the UMass Extension School for more information about incorporating these practices into your work.