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TALLAHASSEE – The Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) this week
launched an interactive website to provide information about
Florida-friendly plants and landscaping. A partnership between DEP, the
University of Florida, Florida Yards & Neighborhoods and the Southwest
Florida Water Management District, the site helps visitors plan
environmentally-friendly yards that reduce the need for fertilizers and
pesticides and promote water conservation.
“Florida-friendly landscaping safeguard the environment and protect the
State’s natural resources,” said DEP Secretary Colleen M. Castille. “The
Florida Yards website allows both citizens and professionals to access
information on native plants, plan their own landscaping and explore
additional resources to design a Florida-friendly yard.”
The site provides basic information of Florida-friendly landscaping,
including environmental benefits and guiding principles, and includes a
database of native Florida plants. An interactive feature allows visitors to
design a Florida-friendly yard using indigenous plants that are best suited
for Florida’s environment. Also included is a professionals’ corner,
complete with stories and resources for professional landscaping
organizations.
Irrigation of lawns and landscaping in Florida represents the single
largest use of water from municipal water supplies. This water use has
impacted the state’s aquifer, which is the source of drinking water and
water that supports Florida’s springs and other ecosystems. In addition,
fertilizers and pesticides used on lawns can impact water quality in lakes,
rivers and bays. By using native plants during landscaping, citizens can
reduce the amount of fertilizers and pesticides used, conserve water,
provide habitat for native wildlife and preserve water quality in Florida
waterbodies.
For more information, visit the Florida-Friendly Landscaping website at
www.FloridaYards.org.
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2012 State of Florida