Urban runoff from lawns, gardens, streets and hardscape is the #1 source of ocean pollution.

 One inch of rain falling on the roof of an average sized single family home can generate over 1,200 gallons of runoff. As this runoff travels through our urban landscape it picks up pollutants and bacteria that cause 20,000+ beach closures + advisories nationwide every year.

To mitigate the effects of stormwater runoff and replenish groundwater supply the Ocean Friendly Gardens program applies the principles of Conservation, Permeability, and Retention (CPR).

• Conservation of water, energy and wildlife habitat through native and climate resilient plants.
• Permeability fostered by using materials that allow water to slow and sink into healthy, living soil.
• Retention of rainwater for reuse and groundwater recharge, preventing polluted runoff.

• Go organic. Say no to chemical fertilizers and pesticides! Landscaping chemicals often leak into local waterways through groundwater and runoff.
• Compost. Use kitchen scraps and green waste from your yard. Composting reduces food waste and prevents the release methane from our landfills, helping to reduce local impacts of climate change. Here are some easy-to-follow instructions for getting started:
  • How to Make Compost, Your Step-by-Step Guide 
  • Video: The Perfect Composting Recipe. How to get your compost heap cooking.
  • Your Guide to Building a Worm Compost Bin
• Go Native. Native plants and grasses are well suited to your local climate and don’t need supplemental irrigation when they are fully-grown!
• Plant a vegetable garden.  Grow your own food and make less trips to the grocery store. It’s still not too late to start your seeds in many growing zones.
• Shape your yard. Create contours in your landscape to capture, slow down and soak up rain, or consider installing a rain barrel.