Nearly all publicly managed parks and playing fields are treated with chemical pesticides. But there are exceptions: check out the communities on our map that have committed to finding a better way.

Organic landscaping standard

The federal organic standard that regulates the production of certified organic food was not designed to apply to landscaping. We have worked with our collaborating organizations to develop a set of requirements for communities participating in the StonyFields program for organic landscaping that are based on the national organic standard. Similar to the national organic standard, the organic landscaping standards in use by the StonyFields program require playing field managers to start by using a systems approach to build healthy soil and deter pest problems. The StonyFields program prohibits the use of toxic persistent pesticides, synthetic fertilizers, and genetically modified organisms, using the same criteria as the national organic standard. Building healthy soil using organic amendments and compost, proper plant selection and cultivation, and monitoring to detect pests and weeds before they become an issue are key components of the program.

“Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world; indeed, it’s the only thing that ever has.” – Margaret Mead

Please join us in celebrating and supporting the towns across America who have already begun to take steps to reduce the use of harmful pesticides on the playing fields in their community.