FOR RELEASE: April 16, 2007

CONTACT:
Aimee Code, Northwest Coalition for Alternatives to Pesticides, 541-344-5044 ext 27

Looking for Ways to be Earth-Friendly this Earth Day?
Manage pesky bugs and weeds, and be good to the earth at the same time.

The battle to have a weed-free lawn is at its height at this time of year. With Earth Day coming up, it's the perfect time to think about what we can do for the earth. Why not commit to a lawn or garden that's healthier for our families and for the earth?

The products that we so often reach for when there are aphids on our roses or dandelions in our yards are increasingly being scrutinized for the risks they pose to our health and the health of the environment. People are becoming increasingly aware that pesticides can harm more than just the pest.

"Individuals can make a difference by choosing alternatives to weed killers and bug sprays," says Aimee Code, program coordinator for the Northwest Coalition for Alternatives to Pesticides. "We can have beautiful lawns and gardens without resorting to toxic chemicals."

A recent review by the Ontario College of Family Physicians revealed a range of problems due to pesticides including cancer, birth defects and fertility. The doctor's order? "Avoid exposure to pesticides whenever and wherever possible."

That is not easy since pesticides are found almost everywhere we look. Government monitoring found pesticides in every stream that they tested -- all across the country. Those findings also showed that urban streams are just as likely to be contaminated with pesticides as agricultural streams.

Some simple changes at home can make a difference. Here are some springtime tips:

Having problems with aphids?

• Check nursery plants carefully so that you don't bring aphids into your garden.
• Don't overuse fertilizers. Nitrogen-rich succulent new growth attracts aphids. Try organic fertilizers that release nutrients slowly.
• Remove aphids with a strong spray of water.

Are dandelions your concern?

• Keep your lawn healthy so it will crowd out dandelions: Mow frequently with the mower blade set high. Water deeply but not too often.
• Dig out dandelions or give special dandelion tools a try. Tolerate a few dandelions!

In the spring, NCAP fields lots of questions about pesticide-free tactics for lawns, gardens and homes. Their fact sheets about common insects, animal pests, and weeds are available online. Go to: http://www.pesticide.org/ and click on the 'Publications.'

NCAP's Healthier Homes and Gardens program can also help. People who sign up this free program get a monthly email with tips for a common weed or pest. Sign up at: http://www.pesticide.org/HHG.html

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