To further improve the health of creeks and waterways, there are simple things you can do at your home to enhance sustainable practices in yard maintenance:
Use green bins: Green waste bins are specifically designed for disposing of yard debris like leaves, grass, and branches. By placing yard waste in these bins, it is diverted from landfills to composting facilities, where it is transformed into mulch or organic compost. This reduces methane emissions from landfills and recycles nutrients, promoting healthier soil.
Choose low water-use plants: Replacing traditional, water-intensive grass lawns with drought resistant landscaping can significantly reduce the water demand. Drought-tolerant plants require less maintenance, reducing the amount of yard waste.
Opt for non-toxic fertilizers: Using non-toxic fertilizers minimizes the risk of harmful chemicals entering waterways through runoff. these fertilizers are also safer for pets, children, and wildlife. Composting yard clippings is another practice that enriches the soil, improving plant health naturally and reducing the need for synthetic fertilizers.
These simple actions help safeguard our creeks and waterways while promoting a sustainable garden and lawn care approach.
Visit roseville.ca.us/stormwater for more information.