You probably know that pesticides and herbicides are powerful chemicals that can injure wildlife if overused. But, did you know that over-fertilization and erosion are major threats to Virginia waterways and wildlife? Carried with rainwater into lakes, rivers or the Chesapeake Bay, nitrogen from fertilizer feeds toxic algae to create dead zones where nothing else can survive. Sediment from erosion clouds waterways, preventing the growth of aquatic grasses—the base of the food chain for many fish and waterfowl.
Virginia Cooperative Extension Loudoun County Master Gardeners educate on environmentally sound landscape management practices for the community. Conservation and preservation of our natural resources, like soil and water, is the ultimate goal. My Backyard is a self-directed program designed to assist and guide residents and land managers with 10 presiding principles on healthy soil, reducing stormwater runoff, watering wisely, lawns, trees, shrubs, perennial flowers, and more.
The good news is that you can help protect Virginia’s natural resources and still enjoy a vibrant, healthy yard. By taking part in the My Backyard program, you receive education necessary to implement an environmental landscape management plan for your own yard or property, which will save you both time and money, making it even easier to enjoy. You can also certify your property and become a Watershed Partner using our yardstick evaluation scorecard!
Does your property measure up?