HomeMy Public PortalAboutTOL PR 2013-06-26 lawn and garden practices
Town of Leesburg
News Release
For Immediate Release
Smart Lawn and Garden Practices Can Prevent
Stormwater Pollution
Leesburg, VA (June 26, 2013) – As we get into the warmer months of summer, more people are
busy doing yard work to build or keep a green lawn. However, some lawn and garden care
practices can actually be harmful to the environment. Many people are unaware of
environmental consequences of their lawn care practices, but simple, every-day habits can
cause potential problems down the road (and downstream!). Below are some important notes
on preventing stormwater pollution from poor lawn and garden care practices:
• Consider eco-friendly products over chemical-based products. There are many safer
alternatives to harsh chemicals which can wash into storm drains and cause harmful
impacts downstream. If you choose to use a chemical product be sure to follow
manufacturer’s instructions carefully and don’t over-apply. More is not better!
• Fertilize in the fall instead of the spring. This timing helps lawns recover from the harsh
heat of the summer while building strong roots over the winter for next spring. If you
feel you must use a product in the spring, consult the local extension office for
assistance with soil testing to ensure you’re using the right product and amount for the
job. The Loudoun County Extension Office can be reached at 703-777-0373 for more
information.
• Don’t over-water your lawn, especially after applying fertilizer, pesticides or other
chemicals. The runoff will flow into storm sewer inlets, carrying with it those same
chemicals. This means less stays on your lawn to do its job and more enters the
waterways where it doesn’t belong. Also be mindful of the weather forecast – summer
storms often bring heavy rains which can also wash away freshly applied products.
• Don’t leave yard waste in the street. Don’t sweep or blow it into storm drain inlet,
either! Storm drains and the sewer system are designed for moving water – not yard
waste or trash. Leaves and grass clippings don’t immediately break down, thereby
clogging the drains and outlets, which can lead to flooding. In addition, downstream
outfalls cannot handle the extra nutrients that come from the grass clippings and leaves.
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TOL PR 2013-06-26 Smart Lawn and Garden Practices
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• Cover piles of dirt or mulch being used in landscaping projects. If you have more
material delivered than you can distribute in one day, plan on having a tarp to cover the
pile with. Otherwise, rainfall can wash the material into the sewer system, potentially
clogging storm drains and washing away your investment!
For more information on educational outreach programs about stormwater pollution
prevention, including volunteer opportunities, contact the Town of Leesburg Department of
Public Works at 703-771-2790, via e-mail at publicworks@leesburgva.gov, or visit
www.leesburgva.gov.
Contact:
Department of Public Works
publicworks@leesburgva.gov
703-771-2790
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