Ewww.I was browsing the St. John's Riverkeeper website which led to browsing the web for photos of past algae blooms. My daughter summed it up nicely: "It looks kinda cool... in that horror-movie creepy sorta way."
Welcome to Jacksonville. Let me introduce you to our "horror-movie creepy" river.
*sigh*
"Algae blooms are caused by too many nutrients. One source of nutrients is
the fertilizers that enter our river through storm drains and from runoff.
Algae blooms, pesticides and herbicides can harm us and our river." -- St.
Johns Riverkeeper
So, what can we do? Today? Right now? Here's a list (taken directly from the wonderful resources at St. John's Riverkeeper):
- Slow it down: Use only slow-release, low-phosphorous fertilizers, or have your lawn service do so. Use organic fertilizers, if possible. Avoid fertilizers that contain chemical weed killers. Remember, less is best. Use no more than necessary. And always try to avoid applying fertilizers before a heavy rain.
- Twice is nice: Make your grass stronger by watering no more than twice a week, and only if necessary. Water early in the morning and adjust sprinklers to only water your grass, not streets and driveways.
- Put it to bed: Create beds with low-maintenance plants next to streets, driveways and waterways to help prevent runoff and reduce lawn size. Consider using native plants. Use an organic mulch (not cypress) around plants to retain moisture and slow runoff.
- The drain is for the rain: Never sweep clippings or debris down the storm drain. Drains eventually lead to the river. Mow high and keep your blade sharp. Never cut off more than one third of the grass blade. This will result in a healthier lawn and cut down on the amount of fertilizers and water you need to use.
Once you've done those (and instilled those practices as habit with you and your family), consider becoming a member of St. John's Riverkeeper. They need your $$ to continue their work.
