Johnson County cares about healthy yards because healthy yards mean healthy streams and waterways, which means healthy communities for people, pets and wildlife. It takes all of us to ensure that we have clean water for all of our residents – current and future. Here are a few steps you can take in your own yard to make a positive difference right here in Johnson County.

1. Shrink your lawn!

Aside from the general lack of interest in a large expanse of turf grass, it takes loads of pesticides, herbicides, chemical fertilizers, irrigation, mowing, aerating, plugging and on and on to keep it green. And for all that effort and expense, a single-species turfgrass lawn provides no benefits for our local or migrating wildlife.

2. Landscape with native species!

By landscaping with native plants – grasses, shrubs, vines and wildflowers – you could support hundreds (even thousands!) of beneficial insects and birds in your yard. Seasonal color and diverse textures will add constantly changing interest to your habitat.

3. Soil Test before applying fertilizers

If you must maintain a green lawn, especially if you are growing vegetables, be sure to take advantage of Kansas State Research and Extension – JoCo’s FREE annual soil test. Find out what your lawn/garden needs before applying chemical fertilizers that could contaminate our streams and waterways.

4. Pick up after your pets – even in your yard!

Pet waste contains E. coli and other dangerous bacteria that enter and pollute our surface water. Exposure/ingestion of these pollutants can cause serious illness, and several JoCo streams have E. coli impairments. So do your part and don’t allow your pet’s waste to run off your property. Please pick it up in bags and dispose of it in the trash.

5. Build a rain garden to slow and treat the runoff from your property

Every little bit counts when our stormwater systems are under pressure from heavy rains. With a little intention and design, your rain garden can be a beautiful focal point in your yard.

6. Hook up a rain barrel (or three!)

Capturing water from your rooftop is easy to do and can take a bit of pressure off our systems (just like rain gardens). It can also offer a free and clean water source for your landscaping and gardens during dry times.

7. Compost leaves, yard and food waste

Properly composted, these can provide fertility for your yard features that require it, reducing the need to buy and apply chemical fertilizers.

8. Mow grass high and leave clippings

Allowing organic matter to compost in place is really the best and easiest option for an all-around healthier yard!

9. Handle hazardous waste responsibly

Dispose of lawn and garden chemicals, cleaners, motor oils, paint and all matter of household hazardous waste at either one of our FREE drop-off facilities (Olathe and Overland Park) — appointments required.

10. Learn more by attending the Healthy Yards Expo on April 13, 9 a.m.-2 p.m., at the Shawnee Civic Centre!

Learning and fun for the entire family – 40+ vendors, including cities promoting costshare programs for rain gardens and rain barrels, native plant sale, expert presentations throughout the day, StoneLion Puppet Theatre performances (10:30 a.m. and noon) and TONS of door prizes.