Living in Stillwater offers a unique opportunity to engage with our natural surroundings and contribute to environmental sustainability. By adopting specific practices each season, residents can play a pivotal role in preserving our community’s beauty and health.
Winter: Planning and Conservation
Winter is an ideal time for project planning. Residents are encouraged to minimize the use of salt for deicing, opting instead for sand, which can be recovered and reused throughout the season. Additionally, always remember to pick up after your pets to prevent contaminants from entering our waterways.
Spring: Maintenance and Planting
As the snow melts, clear road gutters of debris to prevent it from entering storm drains. Adopting a nearby storm drain can make a significant difference. Early spring is also the time to pull invasive plant species before they establish. When planting, choose native species and limit mowed lawn areas to support local biodiversity.
Summer: Water Conservation and Garden Care
Maintain rain gardens to manage stormwater effectively. Keep leaves, grass clippings, and dirt off the streets, and limit the use of fertilizers and lawn chemicals. Conserve water by limiting lawn watering and ensure gardens and trees provide habitats for bees and birds.
Autumn: Preparation and Assessment
Plan and implement buckthorn removal projects, and take the opportunity to pull out remaining weeds. Assess the year’s accomplishments and plan for the upcoming year to continue enhancing our community’s sustainability efforts.
By integrating these practices into our daily lives, we can collectively contribute to a more sustainable and vibrant Stillwater.