Many of our residents take pride in having
lawns that are very green, and free of weeds, the result of
spraying herbicides. Some hire companies who send workers
out in protective clothing to spray insecticides. Unfortunately,
the lethal effects of these substances are not limited to unwanted
weeds, or nuisance insects. They also damage the health, and
kill, bees, birds, butterflies, and other wildlife. And the
spray does not limit itself to the land on which it is
sprayed. It can drift with the wind, or be spread by storm
water, to a neighbor’s property and/or Town right of way.
I propose that we follow the example of Takoma Park, and enact
restrictions on the use of pesticides in our Town. The idea is to
protect the environment so important to us all. Before
enacting the ordinance, I would propose that the Climate and
Environment Committee, which has already taken a lead in this
area, provide more educational materials and workshops so that
residents will understand why restricting pesticide use is so
important to us as a community. In preparing to enact our
own ordinance, we need to study the ordinance enacted in Takoma
Park, and track the successes, as well as any problems with its
implementation, so that we can learn from the Takoma Park
experience, in crafting our own ordinance.