Home Builder Developer - Interior Renovation and Design

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Baby Swimming Pool Market Analysis: The transformative Impact Due To COVID-19 The Courier - The Courier

From a Wash Park backyard with Mediterranean allure to a stone terrace with views of the Flatirons, these outdoor living spaces are sure to inspire.

Lots of time spent outdoorsyear-round!is a hallmark of the Colorado lifestyle, whether youre grilling al fresco, kicking back while taking in a picturesque sunset, or huddling around a fire pit with family and friends. No wonder, then, that around here, stylish outdoor spaces are always in demand. Weve tracked down five of themfrom a stone patio with sweeping views of rolling hills to a secluded urban oasisto inspire your patio upgrades this spring.

Tucked at the bottom of Morrisons hogback, this outdoor space (pictured above) presented design challenges from the get-go. Its an interesting site, topographically, says landscape architect Chris Turner, principal of Elevate By Design, referring to the steep slope on the east side of the lot. Instead of fighting against the natural grade, Turner and a collaborative team of engineers and contractors embraced it in order to design an outdoor area that blends with its natural surroundings and complements the homes modern architecture.

Now, a stream cascades down the hillside, meandering around strategically placed boulders before feeding into a heated pool that resembles a natural pond, thanks to its sinuous shape and black interior finish. A sleek fountain wall with a trio of spouts is fed by a spa tub perched on a terrace above. We ended up using the movement of water to soften the hard angles [of the home], Turner says of the aquatic features.

To tie it all together, the lounge areaanchored by a swanky Nisho firepitis bordered by large concrete pavers with a sandy finish that complements the homes exterior stucco walls.

Landscape Design: Elevate By DesignResidential Architecture: TKP Architects

After about four years of living in this 1980s-era house just south of Boulders Wonderland Lake, the owners decided to make it their forever homebut first, they needed to invest in some serious upgrades. Primarily, the work was about, How do we connect the indoor spaces to the outdoor spaces? says architect Steve Perce, principal of Boulder-based Bldg Collective. Though the homeowners loved that the set of trifold doors along the rear wall of the house opened onto a concrete patio, the homes disjointed layout prevented easy access to the outdoor space. The solution: By reconfiguring the fireplace, moving the kitchen, and formalizing the living room, Perce says, they created a more natural flow from interior to exterior.

The team also replaced the windows, doors, siding, and roof; replaced and updated the metal railing on the upstairs patio; and patched and repainted the stucco walls around the trifold doors. The end result is a breezy, modern dwelling that invites its inhabitants to move freely through its living areas when dining, relaxing, or entertaining. Best of all, as Perce says, you cant even see where the old and new come together.

Residential Architecture: Bldg CollectiveFurnishings: Studio Strongwater

On the outskirts of Aspen, theres an 8,500-square-foot dwelling thats invisible to those traveling along the main access roadsave for a tantalizing sliver of architecture that hints at the modern marvel hidden from view. A closer look at the property reveals that this unobtrusive quality extends to its sculpted landscaping, which unites the modern architecture with the softer, wilder feel of its surroundings. Its a very naturalistic landscape that creeps into the [modern living] spaces, says landscape architect Gyles Thornely, owner of Aspens Connect One Design.

The key feature of Thornelys design is a grassy berm that wraps around the living space, acting as this hugging arm that separates the wild from the human activities, Thornely says.

In the private sitting area, simple hardscaping provides an understated backdrop for an avocado-shaped fire pita custom design 10 feet in diameter, created by California stone sculptor Roger Hopkinsand a mirrored sculpture by Danish artist Jeppe Hein. [The art] is fun and whimsical, Thornely says, and complements the rectilinear geometry of the house. Yin, meet yang.

Landscape Design: Connect One DesignResidential Architecture: CCY Architects

What this patio lacks in space, it makes up for with Mediterranean allure. Located across the street from Denvers Washington Park, the lot is tight, with minimal privacy. Our goal was to make an outdoor living space that was a continuation of the house, says Scott Parker of Nest Architectural Design, the Denver firm tapped to dream up the entire 5,000-square-foot home, which takes its cues from Spanish styles of architecture. Led by project manager Laura Parsons, the Nest team designed two rustic wooden pergolasone off the front of the house, the other off the backto create secluded yet airy outdoor rooms. To tie them together, Parker explains, we ran two timber beams through the house from front to back, from pergola to pergola.

On the back patio, thoughtfully chosen design elements help maintain the intimate feel. A stone fireplace adds a cozy touch while providing a degree of privacy for the seating areas, and creeping greenery climbs up (and, eventually, across) the pergola for a romantic vineyard-esque feela slice of European charm in the city.

Residential Architecture: Nest Architectural DesignLandscape Design: R Design

Tasked with remodeling a South Boulder home after it was ravaged by floods, the team at Mosaic Architects & Interiors quickly realized that water damage wasnt its only flaw. Nothing was responding to the views and context of the home, says Mosaics senior architect Rachel Leeand that included the outdoor space. Everything was positioned the wrong way; it didnt take advantage of what was there. In other words, Lee says, the house wanted to realign itself to the view.

That meant adding about 350 square feet to the footprint, tilting the orientation of the home on its axis to face northwest, and angling the patiothe edges of which curve gently in harmony with the surrounding hillsto capture views of the Flatirons. In keeping with the clients Buddhist sensibilities and Zen approach to space, a natural buff sandstone sculpture provides an eye-catching endpoint to a sightline that begins at the front door and extends through the living room and outside to the patio. Its an unusual feature that draws you through the house, [invites you to] pause, then draws you out to the wilds beyond, Lee says.

Residential Architecture: Mosaic Architects & InteriorsLandscape Design: Altgelt & Associates

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Upgrading Your Patio This Spring? Take Cues From These 5 Outdoor Oases - 5280 | The Denver Magazine

COVID-19 caused homeowners to focus on ways to relax and entertain at home. And as everyone grew weary of spending time indoors, backyards have become more important than ever, with homeowners looking for ways to make these spaces more livable.

Backyard improvements increase your entertaining square footage says Jenny Usaj, employing broker and co-owner of Usaj Realty, a real estate brokerage in Denver, CO. While not technically heated or cooled to be calculated livable square feet, backyard living rooms are certainly a great addition, she adds.

But with so many different backyard ideas and projects to choose from, it can difficult to know which ones will provide the biggest bang for your buck. These are nine backyard improvements that add value to your home.

(Image credit: Getty / Deb Perry)

The beauty of an outdoor fire pit is that it allows you to be comfortable in your backyard when the weather turns cool or downright cold.

One of the hottest improvements a homeownercan add to their backyard is an outdoorfire pit installation - that is oftentimes gas powered - with stone dcor walls and patio tile, explains Jason Gelios, a realtor at Community Choice Realty in Detroit, MI.

If you spend $6,000 to $8,000 on a custom outdoor fire pit, Gelios says the ROI when you sell the home is roughly 60-70percent. This can be huge, because a homeowner could enjoy the comfort and ambience of an outdoor fire pit but not lose all their money when they decide to sell, Gelios says.

And if you dont want to spend that much, Bill Golden, a realtor/associate broker at RE/MAX Around Atlanta, GA, has another option. At my ownhome, wewere goingto build a fire pit, but decided to experiment by using a pre-made fire pit, and liked it so much that it became our permanent solution, he says. Regardless of which type of fire pit you choose, Golden believes it is certainly a worthwhile backyard project. The added value of a fire pit helps a potential buyer see that this home has the room and amenities in place to enjoy it across varying seasons.

(Image credit: Wayfair)

How much time homeowners spend in their backyards depends not only on physical comfort, but also the level of solitude and isolation afforded from neighbors. As the poet David Frost said, Good fences make good neighbors. However, if you dont have the budget (or the will) to put up a full-length fence, David Charette, licensed interior designer and founder of Britto Charette in Miami, FL, offers two alternative solutions. First, he recommends using greenery. Potted plants and trellises can provide privacy and also add color to your backyard. In fact, even if your only backyard space is a balcony, Charette says plants and trellises will work well.

You can also use decorative fencing - create layers of privacy using decorative panels made of wrought iron, stone, or wood, combined with fabrics and greenery, he recommends.

To Patrick Garrett, a broker/owner in Birmingham, AL, an outdoor kitchen is the first backyard improvement that comes to mind when deciding what will add value. A fabulous outdoor kitchen can really make a home stand out against its competition. However, he warns that not all outdoor spaces are created equal. To get the biggest ROI, you will want to ensure the outdoor kitchen space is truly functional, and one that can be used at least three out of four seasons, Garrett advises.

So, what does this entail? A ceiling fan to enjoy a cool breeze on hot summer days, and a fireplace or fire pit to warm up during those cool fall evenings, he says. In addition, Garrett recommends that the outdoor kitchen have plenty of counter space for prepping food and party supplies. It should also have a nearby sink for washing hands, and of course a space and electrical connection to hang a television for that big game event, he says.

A deck can increase your livable outdoor space, and thats why broker Ted Karagannis, of Warburg Realty in New York City, recommends it. In fact, he really likes tiered or multi-level decks. Creating wooden platforms for different level decks is a fantastic way to bring interest in creating exciting environments, and will add much value to your backyard experience, he says.

But before you build a deck (or have one built), there are a few steps you need to take first. Its vital that you check with your local ordinances to see whats required by the local municipalitys code to build a deck, advises Joe Raboine, director of residential hardscapes at Belgard. Second, be sure to have a professional engineer the deck to ensure that the joists are properly spaced, and that the number of supports/footings is correct.

(Image credit: Markus Spiske for Unsplash)

A pool is a significant investment, and Golden says the added value varies greatly but is increasing. In the past, there were as many people specifically looking for a pool as there were people who wouldn't buy a house with a pool, he explains. But the pandemic changed that equation. People are spending way more time at home now, and that has increased the demand for pools. Golden says there are around five pools being installed in his neighborhood right now since theyre in such demand.

Part of the value quotient here - as with many such improvements - is how long you plan on staying in your home. He admits that youre not doing to get a dollar-for-dollar ROI. But, if you get to enjoy it for many years and it's a selling point when you put your home on the market, it can definitely be worth the investment.

(Image credit: Made.com stock)

This is another backyard improvement that can add value and usable space. If a home has a large backyard, but there are no shaded areas for sitting and enjoying a cool summer breeze after a long days work, a pergola could be a great option, Garrett explains. There are many value-add options with a pergola, such as adding electrical outlets or building a fire pit in the center for enjoyment during those intimate conversations on cool days. In fact, Garrett says some homeowners even add a roof, lights, and a ceiling fan to increase functionality.

Usaj agrees, adding that an outdoor pergola with furniture and a rug does wonders in enhancing a standard outdoor space. Creating a sense of place within your backyard for entertaining will increase your home value as this is an amenity many people are looking for as they continue to work from home and entertain friends and family.

In fact, thats why Golden says he built a shade structure in his own backyard. We have a large deck adjoining our backyard pool, but it's in direct sun for much of the day, he explains. Building a shade structure not only gave us a way to better enjoy our outdoor space, but for relatively little money it created another outdoor room, which definitely adds value to the home.

Never underestimate the importance of landscaping even in the backyard as it relates to curb appeal. Many times, when I go to show a home with bad landscaping or no landscaping, my buyers are turned off by the whole property, reveals Gelios. Homeowners can spruce up their landscaping with low maintenance plants and shrubs to increase the curb appeal. So, what does he recommend? Concrete walkways, a medium sized tree and flowering shrubs can set you back around $6-7,000 but gain a return on investment of 80-85 percent. And as a bonus, youll enjoy this beautified space while youre living there.

Karagannis also believes that sprucing up your landscape can improve your homes value.

Planting perennials is very important, as perennials will reappear year after year and will be a constant reminder of the different seasons of the year, he explains. Annuals are also very important for bringing added color and will remain flowering from early spring into fall, and each year you have the opportunity to change the selection.

(Image credit: iStock)

In addition to adding plants to your backyard to beautify your landscape, Karagannis believes theres something else you can plant that would be appealing to buyers. Its also great to create an herb and vegetable garden, especially now that many of us are cooking three meals a day from our homes, he says. There is nothing more satisfying than growing your own herbs and vegetables and being able to handpick your spices, tomatoes, lettuce, etc. to complete your fine meals.

One person who has always been a huge advocate of screened-in porches is Golden, and hes glad the market has finally caught up. Buyers tell me all the time that they want some sort of outdoor room, which is how a screened porch functions, he says. They can run from a simple screened structure to an elaborate room like one of my recent listings had, including a fireplace, heater, and hidden TV. He recommends consulting with a realtor familiar with your area to determine what makes the most sense for your home. This is another scenario in which the ROI is hard to calculate, but since it is more of an extension of your home than other backyard updates, you are likely to see a great ROI.

Excerpt from:
9 backyard improvements that'll increase your home value - Real Homes

CAPE GIRARDEAU, MO (BBB) -- A beautiful lawn can be both appealing and environmentally friendly, but it can take a lot of work and be a tricky project to do yourself. Caring for a yard under the best of circumstances can still be challenging; extended periods of extreme weather, dull lawnmower blades, bugs, pests, and heavy foot traffic can all lead to a lawn that needs extra care.

Lawn care generally falls into three categories: landscaping, lawn maintenance, and sprinkler systems. Before selecting a business, evaluate your needs. Some businesses specialize in one area, while others offer a variety of services.

LANDSCAPING: Landscaping businesses design landscapes for designated areas, select the appropriate plants, and provide and install the plants.

LAWN MAINTENANCE: Services generally include mowing, edging, weeding of flower beds, treating for insect disease, weed control, trimming of shrubs, irrigation systems checks, and fertilizing.

SPRINKLER SYSTEMS/IRRIGATION: Services provided by sprinkler system businesses include design installation and general maintenance and repair. Check with your state or province to see if there are special licenses required to do this work.

There are many things that your lawn might need depending on the season. This can include pH testing, aerating the soil, fertilization, filling in bald spots, trimming back overgrowth, and planting seasonal flowers and plants. While many consumers choose to make lawn maintenance a do-it-yourself project, there are those that prefer to leave it to the professionals. Hiring a landscape contractor or lawn maintenance service gives homeowners the professional help they need.

The BBB offers the following tips when considering hiring a lawn care professional:

Read more from the original source:
BBB Tip: Finding the right landscaping and lawn care pro can save you time, money - WSIL TV

Q: What got you into lawn care?

A: My former business partner and I started in my freshman year of college, and then we just continued to grow every single year. Once I graduated from UND in the spring of 2019, we started doing snow removal that winter, and then I bought my former business partner out and now we're growing very quickly.

Q: What goes into restoring a person's lawn, starting in the early spring? What sets your company apart from others?

A: It's always good to aerate in the spring. The plugs from the aeration act as nutrients for the lawn, and they decompose into the lawn. Some people like to get all the dead thatch out of the yard by thatching, which allows more water to get down to the grass easier; water, fertilizer or anything like that. If we continue in this dry spell, it could be very tough on lawns. I would say our attention to detail. We're pretty specific about the way we leave things, and try to do the best job possible.

Q: We had a dry winter, how did snow removal go for you? Going into spring, we're in a moderate drought; does that mean you're going to have to take extra special steps to restore a lawn?

A: Having a mix of part-time contracts and seasonal contracts, it definitely wasn't as successful of a winter as we were looking for, but we'd like to think that things are going to average out over the next couple of years. It was just a dry winter. I would just recommend watering and aeration in the spring and doing everything you can to keep your lawn from being completely dried out and yellow. One nice thing about having very little snow was the lack of snow mold compared to previous winters.

Q: Are you expecting to be pretty busy this spring?

A: I would say things are going to be pretty relaxed this spring, because we're going to have a long time to do our spring cleanups. Usually we've got about a week or two weeks at end of April and early May to do our spring cleanups, but this spring, were starting off completely next Monday. Were just getting out three weeks earlier, so spring will be a little bit easier. If we get some moisture, things can get back to normal, but it's looking like it could be an interesting spring.

Q: More homes are going up in the south end of Grand Forks, so that means more potential customers, right? Is competition tough?

A: Competition is tough but as long as you do good work. We really haven't lost any customers over our years, and we really haven't advertised at all. We've had great love just from people seeing our work and noticing (it).

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An interesting spring: 5 Questions with The Grass Guys owner Charlie Churchill - Grand Forks Herald

MASHPEE Three articles set to go before voters at town meeting next month will help bring the towns long-time-coming comprehensive watershed nitrogen management plan to fruition if passed.

The Board of Selectmen voted last week to approve and recommend articles for the upcoming spring session on May 3.

If you want clean water, and you care about the future of both the environment of the community and the economic fundamentals of the community, we need to start to address the water quality problems that are relevant in our waterways, said Andrew Gottlieb, a member of the Mashpee Board of Selectmen and liaison on the Mashpee Sewer Commission.

The main article, Article 6, seeks to appropriate $54 million to fund the implementation and construction of the first phase of the towns plan to mitigate nitrogen pollution. It includes the construction of a wastewater treatment plant to be located adjacent to the towns transfer station off Ashers Path. A sewer main system that would stretch from Butler Lane and Drew Lane south to Yardarm Drive and along Route 28 and Quinaquisset Avenue is also part of the proposal.

The project represents the first phase of the towns five-phase Comprehensive Watershed Nitrogen Management Plan. In 1999, town meeting voters authorized spending $405,000 to develop the plan in order to reduce nitrogen and treat wastewater.

In June: Water quality issues top agenda at Mashpee town meeting

In August: Cape programs share in EPA watershed grants

Were ready to move forward, John Cotton, chairman of the Board of Selectmen, said during the board's March 22 meeting.

The article must be approved by a two-thirds majority vote at town meeting, and is also contingent on the passage of a Proposition 2 debt exclusion override on the ballot for the May 8 town election, which is necessary in order to protect the towns bond rating, Gottlieb said.

If all goes to plan, the project could potentially go out to bid by mid-November, Anastasia Rudenko of project engineers GHD said during a Sewer Commission meeting March 16.

Another article on the town meeting warrant related to the wastewater project would allow the town to use 2.7 acres of land on Mashpee Neck Road for the construction of a sewer substation as part of the wastewater treatment plant's infrastructure.

A third article asks if the town will vote to adopt a general bylaw to establish flow neutral regulations. It wouldmandate that parcels of property be connected to the public sewer system and eliminate any septic systems in the sewer service areas in order to reduce nitrogen pollution.

If that article is passed, it enables the town to qualify for 0% financing from the states Clean Water Trust.

The latter two articles are relevant only if the wastewater treatment plant article passes, Gottlieb said.

More: Study uncovers previously unknown PFAS contaminants in Cape watersheds

More: Curious Cape Cod: The best hiking trails in each Cape Cod town

Town officials do not anticipate net taxes to increase for Mashpee residents if the articles pass.

The annual debt service would be $156 for a property with the town average value of $498,000. But with anticipated cash flows, residents would not see any additional increase to their tax bills as a result of the project..

Funds from the Water Infrastructure Fund, local room tax, state loan principal forgiveness as well as Cape and Islands Trust loan principal forgiveness will provide enough cash flow so tax increases will not be necessary, Gottlieb said during the March 16 meeting.

Mashpees estuaries and waterways have shown significant signs of degradation over the years due to excessive inputof nitrogen from septic and wastewater treatment systems, as well as other sources such as lawn fertilizer and surface runoff.

The pollution fuels toxic algae outbreaks in bays and ponds that can make people sick and kill wildlife and pets. The outbreaks also force beaches and ponds to close, which leads to an adverse effect on tourism and the regions economy.

Santuit Pond, for example, frequently experiences cyanobacteria blooms that forceit to close during the summer.

The town, along with Barnstable, has also been threatened with a lawsuit by the Conservation Law Foundation to stop septic systems from pumping nitrogen and phosphorus pollution into local waterways. The suit calls for a temporary suspension of any new septic systems and a pause on passing inspections associated with the sale of properties in Mashpee.

We have legal obligations under state and federal law to take action to restore water quality, Gottlieb said Wednesday. The law is what the law is, and it calls for clean water.

Right now the town does not meet that standard, Gottlieb said.

If a judge finds that the town is breaking the law, and the court orders Mashpee to fix its system, the town will not be eligible for the current sources of low-interest money that it is currently eligible for, Gottlieb said.

Its not in our interest to delay this even more, Gottlieb said. If we end up in court and we lose, were going to have to fix it using our own resources.

I hate that we have to spend this kind of money, but I also hate that our rivers and estuaries continue to get polluted, A. Gregory McKelvey, a member of the Mashpee Finance Committee, said during a March 25 meeting. So we have to do something. If we dont do something, theres going to be other consequences out there.

Contact Jessica Hill at jhill@capecodonline.com. Follow her on Twitter: @jess_hillyeah.

More: Town to be involved in Mashpee Commons expansion through three-party agreement

More: Dennis, Harwich delays jeopardize plans for regional wastewater plant

More: Troubled waters? Plan to discharge treated wastewater into Canal concerns Bourne residents

More: $1.2M Stewarts Creek restoration fails to prevent pollution

Original post:
Mashpee sewer construction project to go before town meeting - Cape Cod Times

With the snow cover finally melting, we can see our yards again, and Im sure many of us are thinking about gardening and lawn care. Since moving to Harvard and acquiring a lawn, I have begun reading up on what to do with the (in my case, not-so) green expanse.

According to a 2005 NASA-funded study using satellite imagerythe first, and still most widely cited such researchturfgrass lawn is the most extensive crop grown in the United States, outpacing even corn and covering about 40 million acres. Even though Id rather not think about it, I am concerned with global warming: I know that how I maintain my small patch of Americas premier crop matters to the health of current and future generations.

Like many people, I absorbed ideas about lawn care from my parents. Although I bought a gas push mower (something I wouldnt do again), I also have a predilection for keeping a natural lawn to attract insects, amphibians, and birds. Ironically, grass lawns tend to evoke a strong sense of home for many, despite the fact that they are composed of nonnative species and contribute to the demise of native birds and insects.

Recent researchincluding the Yard Futures Project, as well as a study of bees in suburban western Massachusetts published in Biological Conservation in 2018affirms that management of yards can positively contribute to ecosystem diversity even as natural habitat shrinks. I am not suggesting we do away with the grass lawn, but rather that we recognize and mitigate some of the environmental problems associated with mainstream, suburban-type lawn maintenance. I want to share a little of my reading and research on this topic, so that this spring, we consider leaving some of the synthetic chemical fertilizer on the shelf at the local home supply store.

Chemical fertilizers

Synthetic, commercial fertilizers contain water-soluble nitrogen and some phosphorus, which washes into nearby bodies of water and groundwater. Massachusetts General Laws Part I. Ch. 128, 65A, however, considerably restricts the use of phosphorus in fertilizer to comply with federal law protecting waterways. Depending on the application, the weather, and soil health, a significant portion will wash away. Applying combined fertilizer and broad-leaf herbicide, known as weed and feed, is also concerning because the timing is off: Its better to fertilize when grasses are growing, and de-weed later in the season. Weed and feed results in the over-application of herbicide, typically 2,4-D, which can harm nearby trees after just one application, according to the Wyoming State Forestry Division, and gets tracked into houses on the feet of pets and kids. It has been linked to negative health effects. Canada banned the use of weed and feed products in 2010.

Big picture effects

The water from your lawn flows into inland waterways, groundwater aquifers (affecting the quality of private well water), and, finally, out to the ocean. The EPA highlights nonpoint source pollution, to which fertilizers and pesticides from residential lawns are considered important contributors, as the largest and most difficult-to-address threat to U.S. waterways.

The Bare Hill Pond Watershed Management Committee noted in its last annual report (August 2020) that levels of phosphorus had increased in the deeper zone of the pond. Farther afield, WBUR reports regularly on pollution in the waterways and wetlands around Cape Cod, to which fertilizer runoff makes a strong contribution. Eutrophication, the depletion of oxygen in water generally from algae growth, is produced in inland waterways and coastal waters from the imbalance of nitrates and phosphorus. This kills aquatic life and is hard to remedy, especially as temperatures of coastal waters increase. Eutrophication of coastal waters isnt just a regional issue but also generally affects U.S. coastlinesfor example, every summer a massive dead zone forms, larger than the state of Connecticut, in the Gulf of Mexico, mainly from fertilizer runoff from the Midwest.

Global warming

The use of synthetic chemical fertilizer also contributes to global warming. According to the Garden Club of America, homeowners use three million tons of fertilizer a year. For every ton of nitrogen produced for nitrogen-based fertilizer, representatives of the fertilizer industry in Europe (Fertilizer Europe) estimate that 2.5 to 4 tons of carbon are added to the atmosphere. Further, excess nitrogen not only washes off into waterways, but also, because it is water soluble, gets turned into gas and enters the atmosphere as nitrous oxide, a greenhouse gas that has much higher (up to 300 times) the heat-trapping potential as carbon dioxide. The EPA reported unprecedentedly high levels of nitrous oxide in 2015, due to agricultural usage.

Soil health

Soil scientist Rick Haney travels around the country warning farmers that synthetic fertilizers deplete the soil by killing the good microorganisms that should be feeding their plants, and this will contribute to erosion, as well as poor crop yield (in the case of lawns, unattractive grass that then requires more fertilizer to look OK). Too much nitrogen on your lawn exacerbates soil compaction, making runoff worse, so over time, more fertilizer goes into the watershed. Excess nitrogen can also attract grubs, which in turn attract molesand moles turn yards into a lumpy mess.

Water scarcity

The more fertilizer a lawn receives, the more water it needs, because growth is stimulated and the grass takes up more water. Also, it requires more water input to look green. Therefore, fertilizer often goes hand-in-hand with the installation of automatic sprinkler irrigation. According to the EPA, landscape irrigation makes up about one-third of all residential water usage in the U.S.equivalent to 9 billion gallons per day. Much of this water is wasted due to evaporation and runoff. Studies show that by 2050, about 50% of the worlds population will face water shortages: In the U.S., the West and Southwest are most vulnerable, but significant per capita decrease in water availability in Massachusetts has also been predicted starting in the next few decades.

Alternatives

The good news, I think, is that doing less is the best possible solution for most people! Mow less, let the grass grow higher. The grass will invest energy in growing good roots rather than stems and leaves. Good roots combat runoff and soil compaction and attract healthy nutrients back to the soil.

While I understand the attachment many people have to an emerald green lawn, there are nonsynthetic ways to make the lawn look great. Improving soil health with appropriate inputs of compost, allowing the grass clippings to stay on the lawn to cycle nutrients back into the soil, and letting fall leaves decompose back into the yard are great natural methods. (Oak leaves often take two years to compost, so homeowners may like to rake and compost them in piles before using them.)

One final, and very important, alternative is to plant appropriate native plants instead of those favored by the mainstream lawn industry. Kentucky bluegrass is not a native plant, despite its name: It was brought over as forage for livestock in the 19th century and outcompeted native grasses. This process can be witnessed in Midwestern prairies today, according to Global Rangelands (a collaboration of western land-grant universities), where Kentucky bluegrass is listed as an invasive plant in a number of states and outcompetes native prairie grasses. (Also, it seems to fare poorly in acidic soil, which is common around Harvard.)

Eco-friendly mixes of grass seed, generally a combination of tall and fine fescues, are available from a number of reputable suppliers, and require fewer inputs to grow nicely.

After all my reading and research, Ive concluded that a green lawn does not equal a green Earth. We need to get used to the way grasses look when they are dormant, and think more about the health of the ground beneath our feet.

Catherine Warner of Harvard is an avid gardener, who during her undergraduate years in Virginia worked at local greenhouses and an organic farm.

For more information

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Consider This: Why we need to forget about the perfect lawn - Harvard Press

Ariel Whitely-Noll| Special to The Capital-Journal

Crabgrass is a common lawn and garden weed, best controlled in the spring. As discussed a few weeks ago, the timing is essential for effective control of crabgrass, and products applied too early or too late in the season are wasted.

In April, typically between April 1 and 15, crabgrass pre-emergence herbicide should be applied to areas that have had crabgrass in previousyears. These products do not kill the crabgrass seedsbut rather kill the crabgrass plants just as they are emerging from the seed. This means most pre-emergent products will have no effect on existing crabgrass plants, which is why we rely on proper spring timing.

A pre-emergence applied in the late spring or summer will do nothing to stop crabgrass from invading your lawn or garden.

Due to the limited time these products are effective after application, generally around 60 days or less, there is a signal we can take from mother nature to help us ensure were applying the products at the proper time. Look for the redbuds to bloom. Eastern Redbud trees are native to Kansas and abundant in our landscapes.

When they reach full bloom, apply crabgrass preventer to ensure the product will be well timed with crabgrass germination.

As with all chemical applications, pay close attention to the product label and directions. Products that include pendimethalin (Scotts Halts) and Team (Hi-Yield Crabgrass Control) will require a follow-up application. Dimension or Barricade do not require follow-up applications.Dimension and Barricade last much longer in the environment and have a wider window of application and longer persistence in the soil, resulting in season-long control.

Dimension can also have an effect on young crabgrass plants and works favorably with tall fescue, perennial ryegrassand Kentucky bluegrass seedlings. Again, label directions should be followed. The safest schedule to prevent crabgrass pre-emergent products from affecting new lawns is to seed in the fall and apply pre-emergent for crabgrass in the spring. Dimension may also be sold under the name of its active ingredient, dithiopyr, and Barricade may be sold by its active ingredient, prodiamine.

Crabgrass preventers should be applied before fertilizer to reduce the likelihood that the grass will put on growth too early in the season. Many products combine pre-emergent and fertilizer, but the below products do not.

Barricade: Howard Johnson Crabgrass Control Plus with 0.37 Prodiamine 00-00-07.

Pendimethalin: Scotts Halts.

Team (Benefin + Trifluralin): Hi-Yield Crabgrass Control.

Dimension: Hi-Yield Turf & Ornamental Weed and Grass Stopper.

If you have not already, make sure to test your soil every three to five years and follow those recommendations for fertilizer. Oftenwe find lawns and gardens are overfertilized, which can sometimes cause issues, such asbrown patch, in lawns. For more information about soil testing, visit our website at http://www.shawnee.k-state.edu/lawn-garden/soil-testing.html.

The mention of commercial products and trade names is for educational and informational purposes only. No endorsement is intended, nor is criticism implied of similar products not mentioned. Please make sure to read all product label thoroughly and follow those instructions exactly.

Ariel Whitely-Noll is the horticulture agent for Shawnee County Research and Extension. She can be reached at arielw@ksu.edu.

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Ariel Whitely-Noll: Timing is critical for crabgrass prevention. When should you act? - The Topeka Capital-Journal

A day spent working in the yard is an ideal way to pass the time on spring and summer afternoons. A pristine landscape can add value to a property and instill pride in homeowners who put a lot of thought and effort into their lawns and gardens.

A sun-soaked day can make it easy to overlook potential threats when working in a lawn or garden. But safety precautions are of the utmost necessity when working in the yard, where the risk for serious injury is considerable. For example, the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons reports that, in 2016, more than 90,000 patients, including nearly 5,000 children, were treated in hospital emergency rooms for lawn mower-related injuries.

Lawn-and garden-related injuries can be prevented without going to great lengths.

Know your terrain before mowing

Knowing the terrain in your own yard can reduce the risk for accident or injury. This can be especially important when mowing the lawn with a riding mower. Adhere to manufacturers' recommendations regarding inclines to reduce tip-over accidents that can pin riders beneath the mower. Study hilly areas of the yard prior to mowing so you know which areas are safe to mow with a riding mower and which areas are best mowed with a walk-behind mower. For greater control when using a walk-behind mower on an incline, mow parallel to the slope.

Apply and reapply sunscreen

Sunburns may not require trips to the emergency room, but they can still be serious. In fact, the Skin Cancer Foundation (SCF) notes that sunburn is a leading cause in the majority of cases of basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma and melanoma, which is the deadliest form of skin cancer. The SCF recommends applying sunscreen 30 minutes before going outside to allow the sunscreen to bond to your skin. Reapply sunscreen at least every two hours, and more often if you're sweating excessively. The SCF recommends broad spectrum sunscreens, which protect the skin from both UVA and UVB rays. Though a product with a sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 15 is acceptable when walking the dog or driving to work, the SCF advises using a product with an SPF of 30 or higher when engaging in extended outdoor activities like gardening or mowing.

Employ the buddy system

Use the buddy system when pruning tall trees or performing any tasks that require a ladder. The Orthopedic Institute of Pennsylvania (OIP) reports that more than 164,000 people are injured each year falling off a ladder. Ask a significant other or neighbor to hold the ladder in place while you climb up to reduce your risk of falling. If cutting large branches, cut them piecemeal to reduce the risk of being injured by heavy falling branches.

Inspect the property for insect hives

The OIP notes that the most common insect stings in spring come from bees, wasps and hornets. Homeowners who are not careful can inadvertently come across hives when doing spring cleanup, making them vulnerable to bites and stings. That can be very dangerous for anyone, and especially so for people with a history of allergic reactions to insect bites or stings. Inspect areas where you'll be working to make sure insects haven't put down roots in your property. If you discover any hives and are hesitant to remove them on your own, contact a local landscaping firm.

Lawn and garden accidents and injuries can be serious. Thankfully, accidents and injuries are easily prevented when homeowners take a few simple safety precautions while tending to their lawns and gardens.

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Stay safe when working in the yard this spring and summer - theday.com

Ben Simmons holds fresh eggs next to a trailer he uses to deliver his cuts of beef, pork, chicken and eggs to customers at his Natures Gourmet farm in Petal. Journal Communications/Nathan Lambrecht

Ben and Beth Simmons operate one of the states largest and most diverse grass-fed protein operations selling 100 percent grass-fed beef, pastured pork, pastured chicken and pastured eggs.

Their company, Natures Gourmet Farm (https://naturesgourmetfarm.com/) located near Petal has a large footprint in the region selling direct to customers not only in the Pine Belt region, but in Jackson, Ocean Springs, Gulfport, Picayune and Mobile, Ala.

Earlier in life, Simmons had a career in manufacturing in positions across the Southeast and also traveled to Asia, Europe, and South America. He was also first in the Army National Guard and later transferred to the Air National Guard. He retired in June 2015 with the rank of Colonel.

Simmons inherited the farm from his father in 2009. From the beginning, the Simmons had a commitment to regenerative agriculture, humane animal handling, and environmental stewardship farming without using harmful pesticides, chemicals and artificial growth hormones.

We treat our livestock with respect and let them live their lives the way God intended, Simmons said. All of our animals are raised on diverse forage pastures, in a low stress, all-natural environment where they are free to express their God-given nature.

They started out with cattle in 2010. In 2012, they started raising poultry under an USDA processing exemption for 1,000 chickens per year. In 2014, they added pastured pigs to their operation. In 2017, they added laying hens.

Simmons said regulatory burdens imposed to protect big ag companies are the biggest impediment to small farms. There are 40 states that have adopted the 20,000- limit on chickens raised on a small farm.

Mississippi and many other states in Southeast where big poultry industries are located will only let you do 1,000 per year and you have to sell it directly from your farm, Simmons said. A family cannot survive on only 1,000 chickens per year. So, in 2019, we built a small, on-farm USDA poultry processing plant. Now that I have a plant and sanitation, I can grow as many as I want and ship wherever I want. That is a barrier to other farmers. Investing in a plant opens up a lot of markets and the investment is not as big as some people would lead you to believe.

Most of the work on the farm is done by Ben and Beth and their oldest son, Eric. On chicken processing days, they bring in a few part-time helpers.

Natures Gourmet had the first USDA poultry plant in the state for a small producer, and now has built a processing plant to allow them to slaughter and process beef and pork on the farm.

Like most grass-fed producers across the country, Natures Gourmet saw increased demand for their product during the pandemic.

Our sales went up tremendously this past year, Simmons said. The pandemic actually resulted in more people considering buying directly from a farm. They started looking, investigating and calling. There is a lot of discussion whether this is a temporary thing or if these will become permanent customers. But we certainly have enjoyed continuous growth. In our recent delivery to Mobile, Ocean Springs and Gulfport, probably 15 percent of those customers were first-time buyers. One of them who bought beef, pork and chicken for the first time gave us a five-star Google review.

There are advantages to raising multiple species. Simmons said mimicking nature creates a synergy.

You do not see a monoculture pasture in nature, he said. What people dont realize is that 70 percent of what a cow eats and drinks is returned to the soil. That builds up the quality of the soil and allows more plant diversity.

Producing multiple species also helps with cash flow. Cows take about two years to raise.

Most people getting started cant handle a two-year cash flow, Simmons said. With laying hens, there is something to sell every day. With broiler chickens, every eight weeks there is a product to sell. Pigs can be raised in about ten months.

Simmons sees much greater potential for direct marketing from small farms in Mississippi. He points to North Carolina as a good model.

North Carolina has hundreds of small direct marketing farms and a population that knows the value of buying direct from the farm, Simmons said. And they have an ag department that is pushing that.

Education is key to success in grass farming. He started reading Stockman Grass Farmer in 2010, and felt it aligned with his values and belief in God. He started reading SGF books including those by SGF founder and publisher, the late Allan Nation, and Joel Salatin, who is considered one of the top grass-fed producers and authors in the country.

In 2011 my wife and I went to Joels Polyface Farms for one of his farm tours, Simmons said. My biggest takeaway was that this does work, this is viable, and we need to be doing this. What I saw on his farm was exactly what I read in his books. It wasnt just a marketing gimmick to sell a book. He was actually trying to help people and educate farmers that there is a better way of doing this. We started immersing ourselves in what grass farming means.

Simmons found Nation and Salatin a refreshing change from professors and extension folks who write articles about their theoriesnot practiceof how people should be farming.

Most of it goes back to supporting the big ag engine of feed, seed, fertilizer, chemicals and pharmaceuticals, he said. You have to follow the money. Monsanto provides money to professors to study something and then once the research is finalized, they push it out through the USDA and local extension office as the latest, greatest way to do things.

Simmons also attended a The Grassfed Exchange conference in North Dakota in 2012, and was amazed at what he saw. He was particularly impressed by the tour of Gabe Browns farm.

In just years, he took soils from less than two percent organic matter to up to eight percent all with diverse forage-based pastures, no chemicals, no tillage, and good livestock management, Simmons said. We came back and started adapting his land management principals to grow the health of our soils.

Simmons also met and learned from industry leader Dr. Allen Williams with Understanding Ag LLC.

I was surrounding myself with like-minded people, he said.

Marketing built up gradually. They used Facebook initially to let people know pickup locations, and had a critical focus on quality and consistency.

Unlike the conventional farmer, we see the customers who buy and consume our products, he said. We work really hard on establishing trust with our customers. Trust comes through truth and being transparent. I know other direct marketing farms in Mississippi who label products as grass-fed when they are really not. The lack of Country of Origin (COO) labels is a big problem, too. More than 80-90 percent beef sold in America sold as grass-fed beef is imported. You have no idea what country it comes from, who the farmer was, or how the animal was raised. But those big corporations and their lobbyists got rid of the COO labeling so foreign products could be processed here and be labeled: Product of USA. That is wrong. That is deceitful.

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Nature's Gourmet one of the most diverse grass-fed protein operations in the state - Northeast Mississippi Daily Journal