Ever stop to wonder where all the excess fertilizers and pesticides used on lawns and gardens end up? A lot of it makes its way to nearby waterways, causing pollution and algal blooms that deplete oxygen in the water.
The Surfrider Foundation is a non-profit environmental organization dedicated to the protection and enjoyment of the world's oceans and coastal regions. With over 50,000 members, more than 60 local chapters nationally and affiliates around the world, they work to support the ecological integrity and diversity of the coastal and marine environment.
As part of their mission, they have published Ocean-Friendly Gardens: A How-to Gardening Guide to Help Restore a Healthy Coast and Ocean. This book teaches gardeners how to landscape and plant in ways that reduce the amount of pollution-causing runoff reaching the ocean by practicing what they call Garden CPR- Conservation (using less water, less fertilizer, fewer pesticides), improving landscape Permeability, and Retaining water. Author Douglas Kent is a professional landscaper in California, but his suggestions are widely applicable. Many of the ideas in this valuable resource are helpful to inland gardeners who want to keep their rivers, lakes and streams clean and healthy as well.
For more information or to purchase Ocean Friendly Gardens, go to: Surfrider Foundation.