More than 95% of insect are not pests. In fact, many help us out by eating the pests. Many pesticides kill most bugs they come in contact with, not just the harmful ones. Scientists are also finding pesticides and herbicides in our creeks and groundwater, where they can harm aquatic life.

Don't Be Toxic Credit Eliminate routine pest and fertilizer treatments - identify problems first and treat accordingly. 2 Avoid using synthetic weed and feed products - the best time to use a weed killer is NOT usually the best time to fertilize. 2 Monitor your yard weekly for pest problems so you can "nip them in the bud". 1 Try non-chemical solutions to pest problems FIRST - use least-toxic pesticides only a last resort. (visit www.growgreen.org/insects.htm) 1 Use weed barriers in beds to prevent unsightly weeds. 2

Copies of the Green Neighbor booklet are available at all Austin libraries.
For additional information, call 974-2550.