Dear editor:
As we are in mid-spring, many are cleaning their yards up and removing debris. That “debris” is what our insects, birds, and soil organisms need to survive and thrive. Humans need that life to survive and thrive! Please support the life that supports all other lives, including us, by leaving the leaves. I put mine around the perimeter of my yard, around trees, and in my garden.
Another huge killer and disruptor to life is pesticides! Please do not use pesticides or “organic” herbicides, fungicides, etc. unless it is absolutely necessary. They are harmful to many beneficial organisms and insects. If we leave it alone, predator insects and birds will help keep the balance needed. Those that live on the water and use pesticides (and lawn fertilizers) may be contributing to the disease and/or decline of marine life, insects and birds as those substances run off into the water.
Finally, try to plant some native plants to support these life forms. Our native life depends on native plants with which they have evolved. In the last few years, I’ve learned that I didn’t have many native plants, so I began to add them to my property. I’ve also allowed a large corner of my almost acre of land to grow wild (I mow much less now) and have been pleasantly surprised by the native plants that came up all on their own along with the numerous native bees.
Donna Russell
Roscommon
