If you are like most Minnesotans, the last of the melting snow signals that it is time to start thinking about spring cleaning and getting your home and yard ready for the warmer months. While you are bustling about the garage and basement battling clutter, the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency and Office of Environmental Assistance (OEA) offer a few environment-friendly tips. General tips o Remember that fertilizers, pesticides and other household chemicals should be disposed of at hazardous waste drop sites. Visit www.moea.state.mn.us/hhw/index.cfm for a list of those sites. o Unwanted or unneeded items can be donated to charitable donations, or sold at summer yard or garage sales. Garage o When you sweep out the garage, be sure not to sweep debris into the street where oil-soaked dirt and grime can get washed into storm sewers. This materials should go in the trash. Yard o Keep leaves and other debris out of the street and the garbage – leaves and grass can go in your backyard composter. o If your plans include more extensive landscaping, consider planting native species that, once established, seldom need watering, mulching, mowing or protection from frost. o Starting this year, greater Minnesota is limited to a 3- percent phosphorus mix in fertilizer to help keep lakes and wetlands free of excessive algae growth. o Always read and follow directions when using lawn care products and disposing their containers. o Wait until the grass starts growing before applying fertilizer. For general ideas and tips for reducing waste, visit www.reduce.org.
