Evidence shows that a growing number of commonly purchased and applied pesticides can be harmful to both people and the environment. Part of the problem is the toxicity of the pesticides themselves, but an even greater factor is the sheer volume of pesticides people use, which ends up in our water, air, and soil.

Who applies all these chemicals? You might think that farmers are mainly responsible for pesticide problems, but more than half of the pesticides causing water quality problems are used in urban areas - by residents, home gardeners, and pest control professionals in and around homes, schools, and businesses.

Fertilizer and pesticides capable of killing aquatic species can be rinsed to creeks by garden watering and rainfall. Even pet waste and leaves raked into the street can cause problems when they reach local creeks and the Eel River.

Healthy gardens will make a healthier you and eliminate this problem. Read what you can do about it.