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Florida Web site promotes environmentally-friendly landscaping Florida Web site promotes environmentally-friendly landscaping
TALLAHASSEE, Fla. The Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) this week launched an interactive Web site to provide information about Florida-friendly plants and landscaping. A partnership between DEP, the University of Florida, Florida Yards & Neighborhoods and the Southwest Florida Water Management District, the site helps visitors plan environmentally-friendly yards that reduce the need for fertilizers and pesticides and promote water conservation.
“Florida-friendly landscaping safeguards the environment and protects the state’s natural resources,” says DEP Secretary Colleen M. Castille. “The Florida Yards Web site allows both citizens and professionals to access information on native plants, plan their own landscaping and explore additional resources to design a Florida-friendly yard.”
The site provides basic information of Florida-friendly landscaping, including environmental benefits and guiding principles, and includes a database of native Florida plants. An interactive feature allows visitors to design a Florida-friendly yard using indigenous plants best suited to the state's sub-tropical environment. Also included is a professionals’ corner, complete with stories and resources for professional landscaping organizations.
Irrigation of lawns and landscaping in Florida represents the single largest use of water from municipal water supplies. This water use has impacted the state’s aquifer, which is the source of drinking water and water that supports Florida’s springs and other ecosystems. In addition, fertilizers and pesticides used on lawns can impact water quality in lakes, rivers and bays. By using native plants during landscaping, homeowners can reduce the amount of fertilizers and pesticides used, conserve water, provide habitat for native wildlife and preserve water quality.
For more information, visit the Florida-Friendly Landscaping Web site at www.FloridaYards.org.
© 2006 FLORIDA ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS®
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