Fact Sheets And Publications
Delaware Livable Lawns
The goal of the Delaware Livable Lawns initiative is simple - reduce fertilizer and pesticide runoff from lawns.
Did you know that the EPA considers stormwater runoff from yards, streets, parking lots and other areas to be one of the most significant sources of contamination in our country’s waters?
Certified Livable Lawns companies agree to participate in this program that goes above and beyond the Delaware Nutrient Management Law.
They are monitored for:
- Applying fertilizer based on soil tests so only enough fertilizer to achieve a healthy lawn is applied.
- Using best management practices to prevent fertilizers from leaching into groundwater, ponds, streams or lakes.
Fertilizer runoff occurs when the ground gets more water than it can absorb and it washes away. When runoff carrying pollutants, like excess fertilizer, moves over paved surfaces (streets, parking lots, etc.) there is no soil to act as a filter and it may flow directly into our waterways. Even houses that are not beside a stream or lake can contribute to the problem.
UD Cooperative Extension
This institution is an equal opportunity provider.
In accordance with Federal law and U.S. Department of Agriculture policy, Cooperative Extension is prohibited from discriminating on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, age, or disability.