Welcome to EMSWCD’s Nature Notes series! Nature Notes shares small moments and interesting observations from our property, as well as related natural history tidbits, on a weekly to monthly basis.

November 30^th, 2018

Natural Leaf and Snow Management

Tempted to pull out that leaf-blower for one last fall clean-up? Please consider raking instead. Not only are leaf blowers noisy, they are also very bad for the environment and human health.

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Did you know…

• Two-stroke engines emit hundreds of times more air pollution than cars. This pollution contributes to global warming, smog and acid rain.
• Air pollution also raises risks of cancer, heart disease and asthma, especially in children.
• The forced hot air damages plants and soil organisms, and compacts soil which makes plants more vulnerable to summer drought.
• Electric leaf blowers create less air pollution and are somewhat quieter, but raking is still a better alternative.

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What about snow and ice?

Snow-blowers have some of the same noise and air pollution problems that leaf-blowers do. Here are some lower-impact ways to handle snow on paths, sidewalks and storm drains.

• Avoid chemical de-icers whenever possible. These contain salts which corrode cars, roads, and bridges, and are harmful to plants, aquatic organisms, or both.
• Keep your storm drains clear of debris, shovel early and often to prevent build-up, and use sand, gravel, or non-clumping kitty litter for traction.
• Baking soda helps snow melt faster, and is much less toxic than chemical de-icers.
• Chop up any ice that does accumulate with an ice chopper or garden edger.
• If you must use a chemical de-icer, choose one labeled “pet-friendly” or that has magnesium salts, and apply sparingly just before or as the snow or sleet starts.

Learn about winter gardening and why to leave those leaves in Nature Notes 6!