If yours is like most home, it's surrounded by lawns, gardens, shrubs and trees that require regular maintenance. Unfortunately, the products and practices that keep your yard looking its best can also send contaminants flowing into local bodies of water.

This Chapter examines the potential impact of yard and garden care on the environment and your health. Topics covered include:

• Soil testing and fertilizer use
• Lawn type and maintenance
• Ground covers and erosion protection
• Composting
• Water conservation

By completing this chapter, you'll learn to identify, evaluate and reduce the pollution risks your yardwork may cause.