The number-one crop for suburban communities is the lawn. Unfortunately, many city governments and homeowners mimic rural farmers in their use of dangerous pesticides, such as 2,4-D, that pose serious health risks, especially for children.

This spring, LocalMotion conducted an education campaign with public officials in Grosse Pointe, encouraging reduced use of pesticides. To date, we have addressed all five city councils of the Grosse Pointes (the Farms, the Park, the Woods, the City, and the Shores) where the message has been well-received.

LocalMotion was encouraged to learn that many of the Grosse Pointes practice integrated pest management (IPM) techniques even though an official IPM policy has not yet been adopted by the city councils. The cities have found simple techniques-like mowing the grass at three inches instead of two inches and mulching grass clippings-have been effective in reducing weeds. Spot treatment is preferred over broadcast spraying on all city properties.

LocalMotion encourages the creation of pesticide-free parks, the education of residents in regards to maintaining a healthy lawn without chemicals and the marking of storm drains. The message is percolating through the community in several newspapers describing LocalMotion's actions or detailing ways for homeowners to reduce pesticides. One of the Pointes, Grosse Pointe Park, has also ordered markers to notify residents that the storm drains directly connect to Lake St. Clair, a local source for drinking water and recreation.

We must continue to spread the word about integrated pest management, non-toxic alternatives and strategies that make our lawns green but not mean! n

Melissa Vachon is Safe Schools/Safe Parks Program Manager for LocalMotion, an MEC member group.