Project SafeyardTM Mission

To educate parents about the use of pesticides, so they can make good decisions regarding chemical use on their lawns and in their homes. Project SafeyardTM will also help identify families who have educated themselves about the use of pesticides and have made a conscientious effort not to use pesticides and therefore will have a safe yard in which to play. There is no such thing as a safe pesticide.

One of the first steps of reducing pesticide use is education.

Parents will sign a pledge stating*:

1. 1.They will strive to avoid pesticide-dependent practices and adopt natural control methods.
   

2. 2.Will identify and become knowledgeable regarding the products used on their lawns, including fertilizers, insecticides, herbicides, etc…
   

3. 3.Will read all labels of products and further investigate all active and inactive chemicals, using search engines such as Google and Yahoo, as well as the EPA’s information on endocrine disrupting chemicals.
   

4. 4.Will use evidence-based treatment programs rather than preventative measures for potential infestations, including weeds.
   

5. 5.Will consult with contracted labor (i.e.: lawn care companies, exterminators, etc…) about the chemicals they are using and will obtain label information to investigate further prior to application.
   

6. 6.Will consult neighbors regarding their pesticide use and be aware of water run-off and standing water areas (higher concentration of chemicals may collect in these areas).
   

7. 7.Will ask parents of children’s playmates about their chemicals use and will determine if their children may play on exposed lawn.
   

8. 8.Will communicate with parents of their children’s friends about chemicals they have used and potential dangers.
   

9. 9.Will keep kids off areas where there is a noticeable odor of chemicals or yellow pesticide flags.
   

10. *Project SafeYard will provide materials, resources and websites to aid in the education process.