Redesigning the American Lawn

Redesigning the American Lawn

  • So far we have planted over 62,500 sq miles, some 40 million acres, in lawn.
  • Each weekend we mow an area 8 times the size of New Jersey to within 1 inch and then congratulate ourselves on a job well done.
  • Many of our native plants, animals, and birds are now extinct as they have lost their homes and food source.

  • The EPA estimates that Americans spill more than 17 million gallons of fuel each year while refueling lawn equipment, polluting the air and groundwater.
  • According to the Noise Pollution Clearinghouse, a typical gas-powered push mower emits 85 to 90 decibels for the operator (90-95 for riding lawnmowers). That doesn’t just scare away the birds—it can cause hearing loss over time.

Learn why native plants are better for birds and people and how to get started even just beginning with a small plot.

“Redesigning the American Lawn”
A Search for Environmental Harmony, Second Edition

A book review. This book explains why American lawns have become expansive and barren of life except for grass. It is unbelievable how many chemicals are used and how the average homeowner has bought into the marketing campaigns of chemical giants such as Scotts.  I generally get depressed when reading books about the environment but this one gave me the facts that I need to help educate people and hope that communities are starting to appreciate wetlands and natural areas.

lawnmower-cutting-grass-stylized-black-white-illustration-41296794This weekend we will be putting up a bluebird house and I look forward to weeding, even if it is not quite warm here in Boyertown, PA!

PYGKlogoFacebookPaula Ziegler is a local resident who has a concern for the fate of bees, butterflies, and all wildlife which inspire her to find solutions to creating wildlife habitat gardens that fit into the look of the neighborhood.  Her hope is that you enjoy her blogs and perhaps start a wildlife garden of your own!  Save

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