Lawn and Garden Care
Yard Waste entering storm drains or streams and other water sources , increases the risk of flooding and adds pollutants to the environment . Not only does yard waste cause blockages to the drainage system which can lead to localized flooding , it can also quickly “ super-fertilize ” streams and lakes and can lead to algae blooms and fish kills . Sweeping or blowing grass clippings , fallen leaves , or other yard waste into the street or down the storm drain can cause serious damage to the storm sewer system and to the water resources to which storm drains lead . Leaves , grass clippings and other yard waste ( depending on type ) should be composted , left on your lawn , or placed in acceptable containers for curbside pick-up .
If you have to use fertilizers , pesticides , and herbicides , carefully read all labels and apply products sparingly . According to surveys conducted by the Center for Watershed Protection , over 50 % of lawn owners fertilize their lawns , yet only 10 % to 20 % perform soil tests to determine whether fertilization is even needed ( CWP , 1999 ). Conduct a soil test on your lawn and follow the practices listed here to reduce the need to fertilize on your lawn and garden .
Grasscycling : Don ’ t Bag It !
In an effort to save landfill space , the City of Arlington banned the curbside collection of bagged grass clippings with the adoption of the “ Don ’ t Bag It ” program in 1993 . According to the “ Don ’ t Bag It ” program , presented by the Texas Agricultural Extension Service , leaving clippings on the lawn and allowing them to work their way back into the soil , helps produce a beautiful , green lawn .
IMPROPER DISPOSAL OF GRASS CLIPPINGS
Grass clippings from edging or mowing that fall on the streets or sidewalks must be removed and disposed of properly . Grass clippings should not be disposed of in trash dumpsters . The City of Arlington landfill will accept yard waste at a fee per truckload . Failure to dispose of yard waste properly can result in a citation and a fine .
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