Monday, July 21, 2025
By Caleb Leonard
When we think of lawns, most people envision short, green grass. However, few idealize the ecological expense of maintaining that type of yard. It’s time to rethink traditional lawns and opt for healthier landscapes that protect our coastal ecosystems.
Gas-powered lawn equipment and greedy land developers are creating heat islands, while stormwater runoff threatens our freshwater supply and warms our oceans.
Rain gardens, cisterns, and effective drainage techniques are ways we can protect our coasts. Could your local government be doing more to help? It’s time to rethink the traditional lawn, help the environment, and reclaim our weekends.
Why we need to rethink traditional lawns
Most turfgrasses need over an inch of water each week to look their best. Not to mention all the chemicals they need to reproduce and fend off weeds.
The ecological impacts add up.
The Ocean River Institute provides opportunities to make a difference and go the distance for savvy stewardship of a greener and bluer planet Earth. www.oceanriver.org