A well-kept lawn is something many Benbrook homeowners take pride in. Fresh cut grass, clean edges, and that deep green color often feel like signs of care and attention.
But what happens after the fertilizer goes down is not always visible.
When it rains, water does more than soak into the soil. It moves. Along the way, it can carry leftover fertilizer from yards into storm drains, then into local lakes and streams.
And that runoff becomes part of a larger issue. More than 60 percent of water pollution is linked to stormwater, which often picks up everyday materials like fertilizers along the way.
What seems helpful on land can create problems in water. Excess nutrients from fertilizer can trigger algae growth in lakes and streams.
As that algae breaks down, it reduces oxygen levels, making it harder for fish and other wildlife to survive. It can also affect water quality for activities like boating and swimming.
The solution is not complicated, but it does require attention. Using the right amount of fertilizer, applying it at the right time, and being mindful of weather conditions can make a real difference.
For residents who care about both their lawns and their local environment, it is a reminder that small choices at home can have a wider impact across the community.
For more information, visit https://www.epa.gov/nutrientpollution.
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