We are quickly approaching June and the start of summer and it is time to think about spring cleaning our watersheds. Many use spring time as an opportunity to clean the interior of their homes (wash walls, base boards, clean out closets, etc), but what about the exterior and going even beyond the confines of our own property- the watershed? Similar to house cleaning supplies (i.e. buckets, rags, mops, soap) there are supplies you can use to spring clean the watershed. Here are a few:
- Garbage Bags/Recycling Bins. Rainfall is one forces driving out litter stuck in curb gutters, catch basins, storm drains. A garbage bag goes hand in hand with spring cleaning a stream or watershed clean up! Many civic and watershed groups conduct stream clean ups during Earth Day week, but in reality Earth Day is EVERYDAY! Keeping trash out of residential and commercial catch basins, storm drain gutters and roadside ditches prevents it from flowing into a nearby stream.
- Riparian Buffers. If you live along a lake or a stream consider establishing a riparian buffer by planting native plants, grasses, trees, and/or shrubs. A riparian buffer is the last line of defense when it comes to preventing pollutant runoff from entering a surface water. The roots from woody vegetation help hold stream banks in place, provide habitat for aquatic organisms, while a thriving tree canopy regulates the water's temperature. Riparian buffers prevent pollutants such as fertilizers and loose sediment, from entering the water and allow time for nature to manage the absorption of pollutants.
- Soil Test. A soil probe is a handy tool used to take soil
samples for assessing the health of a lawn, garden, landscaping or crop
field. Prior to applying a spring fertilizer to a lawn, this simple
tool, accompanied by a soil test, can help homeowners save money by
providing sound reliable recommendations for your soil needs. For
example, your soil test may indicate your soil may only need a pH
adjustment rather than a full fertilizer application.
- Fertilize Smart. If you use fertilizer on your lawn or contract with a company to apply fertilizer, ensure it is done using the4 R's: Right source, Right Rate, Right Time, and Right Place. Applying fertilizer right before a rainfall is money that is sure to go down the drain because it has not had the adequate amount of time to lie on your land.
Enjoy springtime while enjoying the outside environment and remember water quality begins with each and every one of us.
