The harmful effects of pesticides on our water supply

We often assume that putting pesticides on our lawns will stop there.  Unfortunately, it's not the case.  The same dangerous chemicals users treat their lawns with eventually find their way into our groundwater supply.  And, that's just not good for anyone.

Beyond Pesticides, a leading policy and action group protecting our health and environment, has a great fact sheet about the dangers of pesticides on our water supply. 




Here's some highlights:

• Of 30 commonly used lawn pesticides, 17 are detected in groundwater, and 23 have the potential to leach. (xxi)
• Runoff has resulted in a widespread presence of pesticides in streams and groundwater. 2,4-D, found in weed and feed and other lawn products, is the herbicide most frequently detected in streams and shallow ground water from urban lawns. (xxii)
• Of the 50 chemicals on EPA’s list of unregulated drinking water contaminants, several are lawn chemicals including herbicides diazinon, diuron, naphthalene, and various triazines such as atrazine. (xxiii)
• Runoff from synthetic chemical fertilizers pollutes streams and lakes and causes algae blooms, depleted oxygen and damage to aquatic life.

 Sobering stats.  All the more reason to choose and promote natural alternatives to lawn care.  Get involved, get educated, get natural.