The Woman is Using Fertilizers and Pesticides for Gardening Improperly!

Fertilizers contain large amounts of nutrients such as nitrogen and phosphorous that can wash into lakes and streams, and may cause algal blooms (overgrowth of aquatic plants that smother other aquatic life). These blooms use up the oxygen in the water that fish and other organisms need to breathe.

Pesticides (substances that kill bugs and animals) and herbicides (substances that kill weeds and plants) also contain toxic materials that are harmful to humans, fish, and "good" plants. When it rains, these toxic materials can run off into storm drains, roadside ditches, and nearby waterways.

Use fertilizers and pesticides properly. Ask to have your soil tested to determine the right amount and type of fertilizers you need. Never apply fertilizers before it is supposed to rain. Use organic fertilizers such as manure, mulch, or compost (see the page on proper disposal of yard wastes). Landscape with native plants (see page on Stream Bank Erosion prevention) that require less water and fewer pesticides.

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