Avoid pesticides on your lawn

I am writing to urge residents to reduce unnecessary urban pesticide use and reconsider lawn culture in our communities. Johnson County Public Health’s recent position statement highlights the significant health risks that pesticides pose to children- who are particularly vulnerable- as are pregnant women. Health risks include cancer, birth defects and disabilities.

Given that pesticides are frequently used in areas where children live, learn, and play, it’s crucial that we transform our approach to green spaces. Rather than maintaining sterile, chemically-treated lawns, we can create diverse, native landscapes that benefit not only our children but also our pets, pollinators, and local biodiversity. These lawns can thrive with less water, no chemicals, and less maintenance, while providing a safe, healthy environment for our families.

By embracing natural, chemical-free lawns and garden spaces, we can protect our community’s health and still have a lovely yard. Our yards will become alive with colorful blooms, butterflies and fireflies! Just like we find at the chemical-free Iowa City parks and Iowa City Community School lawns. A shift toward appreciating diverse, eco-friendly lawns is a step toward protecting our health, our environment, and our future.

Linda Rice

Iowa City