Lane County homeowners can learn to save money on yard maintenance and lessen their impact on the environment through a class offered by the Oregon State University Extension Service.
Training & Certification (Extension Service Lane County)
Sustainable Landscape training provides the public with practical information to create sustainable/green/ecological landscapes. Participants will learn to utilize landscape practices that can be applied to their own yards, and will benefit by improving their soil biology and reducing erosion. They will save money by using fewer pesticides and less fertilizer, and improving the quality and quantity of groundwater. Some outcomes to expect include lowering power, water and waste bills due to more efficient use of resources, and reducing the flow of organic matter into the landfill.
Upon completion of the course, participants will complete a self-evaluation of their yards. If requested, a follow-up on-site evaluation within a few months or so may be done to see what improvements have been implemented. With an evaluation score of over 40 points, the participants will earn a placard to display in their yard showing that their yard has been certified by OSU Extension Service as a Sustainable Landscape.
Certification Topics Include:
- Water Efficiently
- Mulch and Compost
- Gardening for Wildlife
- Stream Side Gardening
- Yard Pest Control
- Right Plant-Right Place
- Lawn Care
- Storm Water Alternatives
- Edible Landscaping/Vegetables
The Sustainable Landscape program will be offered Dec. 12-13, from 9 a.m. – 5 p.m., at the OSU Extension Service office, 996 Jefferson Street in Eugene. The cost of the program is $25 per person. Pre-registration is required. The registration form is available at the OSU Extension Service office, 996 Jefferson Street, Eugene (enter on 10th at the wheelchair ramp) or on the Web at: http://extension.oregonstate.edu/lane/gardens.
CATEGORIES: Community Sustainability Natural Features and Landscaping