Promoting Proper Application of Fertilizers* and Pesticides**
on Lawns and Gardens

WHEREAS, Soil and Water Conservation Districts promote soil conservation and the protection of water quality;

WHEREAS, the rate and timing of the application of lawn and garden fertilizers and pesticides is an important factor in protecting surface and groundwater quality;

WHEREAS, water quality is affected by over application of fertilizers that results from a homeowner/landowner being unaware of the nutrients already present on a site as well as other factors relative to safe and effective application;

WHEREAS, water quality is affected by over application of pesticides that results from a homeowner/landowner not properly identifying the weed or insect being targeted as well as other factors relative to safe and effective application;

WHEREAS, lawn care services and persons responsible for public and commercial property often are not adequately informed about proper application of fertilizers and pesticides that may affect water quality;

THEREFORE, be it resolved that the Association of Soil and Water Conservation Districts actively pursue an education effort directed to urban public, commercial, and private landowners of Illinois regarding the proper application of fertilizers and pesticides on lawns, gardens, and landscaping using educational materials developed by the Association and/or available from its partners. This outreach should emphasize careful, safe, timely, and prudent use of chemicals or alternative amendments used in conjunction with a scheduled soil-testing program, and adequate flagging of application sites.

*Any nutrients added to soil
**Any herbicides or insecticides applied to manage weeds or insects

Approved by Stephenson County SWCD on May 17, 2006

Approved by Land Use Council 1 on June 1, 2006

Approved by Legislative Committee: June 5, 2006

Approved by AISWCD Board: June 6, 2006