Worm poop can save the sea grass in Tampa Bay

The ecosystem reveals new little ironies every day. Florida's drought has exposed the enviromental limits of runaway development and killed its share of lawns.  It does have at least one upside - more sea grass.

Because of no rainfall and severe lawn watering restrictions in Hillsborough and Pinellas counties, far less runoff from lawns reaches Tampa Bay. That's less chemical fertilizer and pesticides that kill off sea grass. In fact, as reported by the St. Petersburg Times, the restoration of sea grass brings the bay back to levels found in the 1950s (though still below levels that Congress in the early 90s committed to achieving.)  Sea grass is important because it provides habitat for fish and other wildlife. Good for sports fisherman. Good for eco-tourists.

So what's the lesson?  One is that generally no important change happens unless there is a crisis. Two is that we can radically improve the quality of our regional environment if Tampa-St. Petersburg area property owners make a commitment to "go green" in their yard care.

It's the chemical fertilizers and pesticides put down by owners and the lawn care service they employ which cause this pollution, kill sea grass, and expose families to toxic chemicals.   There are non-polluting alternatives that will actually keep our lawns attractive, make them stronger over time, and actually stimulate wildlife and bio-diversity in urban areas. 

First, a land owner can plant Florida native plants that thrive with less water.  For good info on the use of native plants, visit the site of the Pinellas Chapter of the Florida Native Plant Society.  Next, you should adopt organic or "natural" methods of lawn care or employ a service that follow such non-chemically based practices. 

A very effective organic fertizer is compost made from worm casting -- that is, "worm poop." There are companies on the internet and operating locally can provide natural materials and services for lawn care. For now I remain neutral on recommendations.

Comments

[Jan (Pinellas FNPS)]

Hey, thanks for the link!

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