The products and practices that that keep home landscapes looking their best can also send contaminants flowing into coastal creeks, rivers, and estuaries. Although it may seem these contributions are minor, the cumulative effects of chemicals, soil loss, and wasted water from hundreds or thousands of homes can really add up.

Carolina Yards & Neighborhoods is a public education and outreach program about environmentally-friendly landscape practices. To find out more about this approach to an attractive, healthy landscape, see the environmental conservation page of this site. You may also contact your local Clemson Extension office, or visit the Carolina Yards and Neighborhoods website at www.clemson.edu/cyn.

Targets commercial horticulturists emphasizing plant management to reduce pest problems and proper pest identification for appropriate pest management decisions.

Teach commercial pesticide applicators and focus on the correct procedures to reduce NPS runoff and direct application to water bodies.

Trains volunteers to educate home gardeners about environmentally friendly plant management and pest control practices.

Targets horticultural professionals focusing on Best Management Practices (BMPs) for nursery and greenhouse production and management practices in landscape installation and maintenance in an effort to reduce NPS pollution.

Comprehensive program covering subjects including: protecting water quality around your home; managing stormwater; keeping well water clean; managing your home septic system; managing hazardous household products; environmentally friendly gardening and landscaping practices; and caring for your boat and dock.

Focuses on home gardeners and commercial horticulturists. Topics include BMPs for landscape installation and maintenance in home and commercial landscapes.

Places a strong emphasis on cultural control of insect and disease problems and teaches environmental impacts of landscape design and maintenance decisions. Additionally, it teaches practical application of water conservation and runoff control.

Teaches commercial horticulturists about responsible approaches to water usage in relation to quality and quantity. Places a special emphasis on irrigation layout and overall design keeping in mind current technology