- Apply fertilizer according to the
plant's needs. Fertilizer in excess of plant uptake can pollute the groundwater
and it is a waste of money. DO NOT fertilize in the winter because plants
aren't growing and the heavy rains transport the nitrogen below the rooting
zone before spring growth begins.
- Use a mulching lawn mower instead
of removing clippings.
- Install backflow devices to prevent
the siphoning of irrigation water back down the well or into your drinking
water supply.
- DO NOT use spray devices that
attach to the end of the hose for fertilizer or pesticides because of backflow
risk.
- DO NOT store any chemicals in the
pump house. Accidental spills can reach the groundwater directly via the well
hole.
- Refuel all motorized equipment
(mowers, tillers, chain saws, etc.) on a hard surface at least 100 feet away
from the well. Collect all petroleum products from oil changes and winter
drainage of fuel tanks. Check with your local garbage company on proper
disposal methods.
- Take special care when using FRESH
MANURE in your garden because it contains fecal coliform bacteria and nitrogen.
Time fresh manure applications like fertilizer - use when the plants are
growing and able to take up the nitrogen. If you are storing manure for spring
use, cover the piles to prevent leaching by winter rains. You can spread fresh
manure in the fall if you are adding uncomposted organic matter, such as
shredded leaves or sawdust, because the process of breaking down the organic
matter takes up the nitrogen. Prevent manure contaminated surface runoff from
reaching your well area.
- Use water conservation practices
around your homestead. Install low-flow irrigation and/or drought tolerant
plants. Let your lawn go dormant (brown) in the hottest part of the summer; it
will green up when the fall rains return.
- Consider the potential impacts on
groundwater and surface water runoff when building any structures or initiating
new practices on your homestead.
