Always be sure to sweep excess fertilizer back into the lawn. When runoff water carrying fertilizer moves over paved surfaces (streets, parking lots, etc.) there is no soil to filter it and it may flow directly into our waterways. Even houses that are not beside a stream or lake can contribute to the problem. Though many people believe otherwise, storm drains found in most local neighborhoods do not carry stormwater to wastewater treatment plants but instead, flow UNTREATED directly into our rivers and streams.
Grass clippings not left on the lawn, leaves, and other plant debris should be removed as soon as possible from street gutters, sidewalks, and driveways. Grass clippings in our waterways may cause unwanted growth of algae and aquatic weeds. This plant material can be composted, used in the garden as mulch, or disposed of through appropriate yard waste sites or community services.