Why be green?

We’re all surrounded by tips on going green and being kinder to the environment, but it’s not always clear why we should be doing these things. Here’s some explanation for a few of those tips:

Why should I…?

Put mulch around trees and shrubs?
A shredded wood-based or organic mulch conserves soil moisture for trees and shrubs. This is especially important because as soil temperatures rise from global warming more water is lost from the soil. Mulch is crucial during summer and times of drought when water is a limiting factor for growth. Researchers have found trees have more fibrous roots and faster growth rates when surrounded by mulch, as compared to grass. In addition, two to three inches of mulch over bare soil can prevent invasive weeds from establishing, reducing the chance they will spread their seed and outcompete native plants.
Prune trees in the winter?
Pruning trees exposes their living tissue to the elements. When pruning cuts are made in the winter, insects are not active and will not be attracted to the wounds, thus reducing the chance a disease will enter through the fresh cut. The general guideline for most trees is to prune from November through March in Minnesota, but the later in the winter you prune, the more efficiently the tree will seal off the pruning cut. Faster wound closure means a lower chance that decay organisms (which break down the structural integrity of the wood) will inhabit the pruning cut.
Pick up litter and monitor my neighborhood storm drain?
The picking up the litter part is easy: plastic bags, pop bottles and cigarette butts are unsightly and give the appearance of an area being unkempt and dirty. Litter can also be harmful to wildlife. But, did you know that the storm drain (catch basin or grate) located at the curb line in the street conveys all the water, organic debris (like grass clippings and twigs), litter and sediment into your neighborhood pond or wetland? Removing any debris from around the storm drain prevents flooding and protects water quality.
Keep soil in place?
Topsoil is valuable, and many times overlooked. Did you know that any exposed soil is highly susceptible to erosion, especially on a slope? Any soil disturbance, from pulling invasive plants and weeds to off-road vehicles, disturbs the soil cover such as plants, leaf litter, or duff. When rains come, the soil is off and running—down the slope into ponds, creeks, lakes and wetlands. When pulling invasive species, shake off the soil and tamp it back is place. Limit vehicle traffic in the woods, or restrict it to winter when the ground is frozen.
Leave dead wood in the woods?
When dead wood of any size has soil contact, it’s helping to retain soil moisture and prevent erosion. Dead logs provide habitat for small animals and a host of organisms in the food web. Rotting wood breaks down into organic matter that builds the soil, so think twice before removing it all. If it looks too messy for your taste, consider chipping the brush and returning it to the woods.
Pick up after my pet?
You’ve heard it before, and hopefully you know you should do it, but we all need a reminder now and again. Pet waste left on lawns, sidewalks, and even in the woods can wash into lakes, creeks, and wetlands, carrying bacteria and nutrients with it that can promote the growth of weeds and algae and pollute waters. If you don’t pick up after Fido when you walk him or if you let him roam over the ice in winter, this waste will melt into the water in the spring. As pet waste decays, it also consumes oxygen and may release compounds and microorganisms that can harm aquatic life.

SCOOPing is easy. Just follow these five simple tips:

  • Stock up on small plastic bags.
  • Carry the bags in your pocket whenever you are with your pet. Tie them to the leash or buy a doggie-bag dispenser.
  • Open the bag and invert it over your hand to avoid contacting the deposit directly. The squeamish can use a scooper. A small bottle of sanitizer can easily fit in your pocket to help clean your hands.
  • Only dispose of the waste in household garbage or in a proper waste receptacle. Never throw it down a storm drain.
  • Picking up after your pet is also about being a good neighbor and a responsible pet owner. Set a good example for others to follow.