![[logo] US EPA](http://www.epa.gov/epafiles/images/logo_epaseal.gif){kind=logo}
Elk Grove Park District's 2006 Strategy
Strategic Approach
Elk Grove Park District will implement an Integrated Pest Management Program in 2006 for all facilities, parks and athletic fields. With approx. 450 acres of park area, this program will work to reduce pesticide use, promoting a safer environment for our community.
Activities for the Coming Year
Activity 1
Soil Testing of All Parks and Facilities
(Annually)
How does this activity reduce pesticide risk?
The soil test will determine any soil modifications needed and provide recommendations on how to accomplish the needed modification. This will in turn reduce the application of unnecessary fertilization. We will base applications on the results of these tests.
How will you measure the risk reduction gained from this activity?
We will track all applications made to any of the parks and facilities, to include amount, type, and compare these applications from year to year.
Activity 2
Soil Test Program for Residents
How does this activity reduce pesticide risk?
The park district will have on hand soil testing kits that the residents may purchase and send into a selected lab. This will provide the first step in the education process to our residents. The lab will mail the results to the resident directly. The results will also contain a section for recommendations from the lab. The resident will have the tool to determine exactly what their respective lawn needs. The resident will then be able to make an educated choice on what fertilizer or modification their lawn requires
How will you measure the risk reduction gained from this activity?
The success will be measured by the number of kits that are distributed. Each kit distributed will be counted at another resident educated.
Activity 3
Staff Training and Licensing
How does this activity reduce pesticide risk?
Elk Grove Park District will require all grounds and horticulture full-time staff to obtain proper licensing as required by the Illinois Department of Agriculture for the use of and application of pesticides. This will ensure that the staff has the proper training to make the best decision on the use of pesticides
How will you measure the risk reduction gained from this activity?
The staff will test in accordance with Illinois Department of Agriculture regulations and a passing score of 70% must be obtained. This will be accomplished every 3 years.
Activity 4
Produce or Make Available Educational Brochures to Elk Grove Residents
How does this activity reduce pesticide risk?
This will help educate children and residents on pesticides, indigenous poisonous insects, poisonous plants, and native plants.
How will you measure the risk reduction gained from this activity?
The risk reduction will be measured by the number of brochures and educational sessions. Also, the brochures will have a contact phone number inside of them so if there are any questions we will track each inquiry.
Activity 5
Phosphorous that runs off of lawns into bodies of water can contribute to algae growth and loss of water quality. By eliminating the use of phosphorous this will no longer be an issue.
How does this activity reduce pesticide risk?
Eliminate the use of Phosphorous in
Fertilizer Applications
How will you measure the risk reduction gained from this activity?
By only purchasing zero phosphorous material. Also, by comparing 2005 application rates with 2006 rates
Activity 6
Reduction in Pesticide Use
How does this activity reduce pesticide risk?
A reduction in pesticide and fertilizer use will reduce the amount of exposure to employees, patrons, and residents.
How will you measure the risk reduction gained from this activity?
We will compare 2005 application amounts to 2006 application amounts.