Coon Rapids Amplifies Focus On Water Conservation And Sustainable Gardening During Earth Month

Coon Rapids Amplifies Focus on Water Conservation and Sustainable Gardening During Earth Month

In the final stretch of Earth Month, Coon Rapids City is spotlighting the significance of water conservation, particularly as it pertains to lawn and garden maintenance. With the underground aquifers serving as our municipal water source, it's crucial to acknowledge that the process for these natural reserves to replenish can span years, or even decades, emphasizing the need for sustainable water use practices.

To effectively reduce the draw from these aquifers, the City suggests smartly utilizing irrigation controllers or only using sprinklers sparingly and at dawn. Additional measures include replacing non-native plants with native alternatives that demand less water, and investing in WaterSense-labeled fixtures and appliances. According to the information provided on the City's Earth Month webpage, these approaches can make a significant impact on water conservation efforts.

Moreover, attention is being called to the practice of "smart salting." While essential for winter safety, it's important to recognize that even minimal amounts of salt can have long-term, detrimental effects on aquatic life. The guidelines shared encourage residents to remove snow quickly, clean up any leftover salt, and to carefully learn about the most effective, yet minimal, quantities necessary for de-icing purposes.

The week's call to action includes purchasing discounted smart irrigation controllers, adhering to smart salting principles during colder months, and the addition of rain gardens to personal landscaping. As an added incentive for sustainable gardening, the Coon Rapids Sustainability Commission organizes an annual Sustainable Garden Tour, showcasing local gardens known for their native plantings, pollinator-friendly setups, or edible food cultivation. "This year's tour will be on Saturday, July 19 from 9 a.m. through 12 p.m.," as per an announcement made on the aforementioned City's website.

Interested gardeners can now register for consideration as a stop on the 2025 tour by completing an online form. While signing up does not automatically ensure participation as a tour stop, final decisions will be made in the upcoming months of June and July, with participants subsequently being informed ahead of the event. For the community's green thumbs, this event is not just an opportunity to proudly display their eco-friendly gardening efforts but also a chance to inspire others to adopt more sustainable practices.

SOURCE: hoodline