Environmental and Conservation Articles

As FGCCT Conservation chair, member of the Garden Club of Newtown and Newtown Conservation Commission chair, I am proud to announce that the Newtown is sponsoring a community event about deadly rodenticide poisons. The program, Think Outside the Bait Box will be on Saturday, April 4 from 2-4 pm at the Newtown Community Center, 8 Simpson Street, Newtown. The program is free and open to the public.

Newtown is moving forward on a Rodenticide Policy for Municipal Buildings initiated by our Conservation Commission with support from town departments and the public. We believe the policy will be adopted this spring. We hope that other towns will follow our lead in protecting wildlife, pets and children by adopting policies in their own towns with the goal of sending the message to Hartford that CT needs to ban the use of rodenticides altogether.

Many of us are just learning about the dangers of second-generation rodenticide anticoagulant rodenticides (SGAR’s) even though these black bait boxes seem to be everywhere we look. Pest control companies put these bait boxes in and outside of homes and businesses. Most people don’t realize the harm these poisons are causing. Internal bleeding caused by rodenticides are a horrific and inhumane way for any animal to die. And it doesn’t stop with the initial poisoned animal. Secondary poisoning of unintended victims results when a bird, owl, hawk, eagle or fox eats a poisoned rodent. By the time an animal is found, it is usually too late to save it and the animal must be euthanized. Many rodenticide poisonings have been documented in pets and children as well.

The April 4 program will feature several educators who will address the issues and provide information on practical and reliable solutions for rodent control. We are pleased to have experts, Nicole Rivard, Friends for Animals, Dr. James Lombella, President CT for Animals, and Joshua Levin, CT Votes for Animals and Christine Cummings from a Place Called Hope rehabilitation facility in Canton. Christine is bringing ambassador Koso, an adorable Eastern screech owl and miraculous survivor of rodenticide poisoning. Our panel will talk about what garden clubs, commissions and the public can do to protect wildlife, our pets and out children. Please spread the word to family, friends and neighbors. All are welcome. Preregistration is appreciated. dawn.fried@newtown-ct.gov.

From an environmental perspective, the 2025 legislative session was a disappointment. State legislation fell short of protecting wildlife from the inhumane poisoning from rodenticides.

While The Environment, Climate, and Sustainable Planning bill (SB-9-AAC) passed both legislative chambers, it is decidedly a huge setback for meaningful legislation of Second Generation Anticoagulant Rodenticides (SGARs). The bill classifies SGARs as “restricted use,” which prohibits access by the general public while allowing certified pesticide applicators to apply them. Legislators somehow missed the point that these poisons are just not safe. And, this legislation reinforces the idea that SGARs are acceptable if applied by a licensed professional, despite the fact that these poisons will still kill non-target species whose main diet consists of rodents.

Screech Owl Bugwood.org

Second Generation Anticoagulant Rodenticides are very powerful poisons used in bait boxes that are placed around buildings. These bait boxes don’t eliminate rodent populations because the bait is meant to attract rodents. Rodents also readily move into a vacated area.

At risk for secondary poisoning are many raptors, including owls, hawks, and eagles. Ospreys and falcons, on occasion, also supplement their diet with mice. So too will fox, coyotes, and bobcats.

SGARs can remain in an animal’s tissues for months. The poisoned rodent does not die instantly and continues to eat more and more poison. Sickened and sluggish, it becomes an easy meal for an owl or hawk who also ingests the poison. Christine Cummings, rehabilitator at A Place Called Hope in Killingworth, will tell you that secondary poisoning for these animals is irreversible. It is hard to hear but birds brought to the clinic that test positive for SGARs poisoning have no hope and must be euthanized to stop their suffering.

Fox

Reports of unintentional secondary poisonings from SGARS are increasing. Poison victims also include dogs and cats, and even children.

All of this is so unnecessary with so many viable alternatives available. Many rodent issues can be eliminated with proper sanitation, physical barriers, and humane mechanical traps. Recent studies show fertility control products (Contrapest and Good Bites) are effective for rodent control when used in combination with other humane methods and very affordable. For more information on “thinking outside of the bait box,” go to www.ctforanimals.org.

Garden Clubs and individuals can and should take the lead on pushing for legislation to ban rodenticides. It is extremely important for us to contact our local representatives; otherwise, they don’t know it’s an issue of concern. But if they hear strong opposition to rodenticides, they will move to support stronger legislation.  Please contact your local state legislators. A simple note or phone call is all that is needed for them to take up this very important cause. To find your representative, go to: https://www.cga.ct.gov/asp/menu/cgafindleg.asp

On June 26^th, Alyssa Siegel-Miles of the CT Invasive Plant Working Group (CIPWG), notified its members that legislation passed to prohibit from sale several more of the most readily available and environmentally destructive invasive plants. The new legislation is additional to plants banned in October 2024 that included Mugwort, Porcelainberry and Wisteria. This action corroborates what we invasive warriors already know to be true: invasive plants are out of control!

While the Invasive Plant Council (IPC)* voted in October to phase out these additional plants, we never dared to hope for legislation so soon. Their decision was based on the CIPWG subcommittee’s evaluation of plants already listed on the CT Invasive Plant List but not yet prohibited from sale. No longer could the devastating impact these plants have on our properties, parks and open spaces be ignored. The IPC submitted their recommendations in their annual report to the Environmental Committee (EC) which prompted the EC to submit a bill, HB 5013 to the legislature. Passing through the house and senate and signed by the governor, Public Act 25-126 is now law which prohibits the sale of following species. The majority however, will be banned only after a designated phase-out period.

Star of Bethlehem
photo bugwood.org

Star-of-Bethlehem (Ornithogalum umbellatum) is immediately prohibited from sale. This plant is an aggressive spreader that not only displaces garden plants but has escaped cultivation. Without any economic value, the EC did not believe a phase out period was warranted.

Winged Euonymus, Burning Bush, Euonymus alatus
photo bugwood.org

A three-year phase out period will apply for several invasives, which will not prohibited from sale until October 1, 2028. They include: Japanese Barberry (Berberis thunbergii), Winged Euonymous A.K.A. Burning Bush (Euonymus alatus), Glossy Buckthorn (Frangula alnus), European Buckthorn, Common Buckthorn (Rhamnus cathartica), Reed Canary Grass (Phalaris arundinacea), European Privet (Ligustrum vulgare), Black Locust (Robinia pseudoacacia), and Miscanthus Silvergrass (Miscanthus sinensis).

Miscanthus Silvergrass, Miscanthus sinensis
photo bugwood.org

Norway Maple, Acer Acer platanoides L
photo bugwood.org

A five-year phase out period will apply to Norway Maple (Acer planatoides). Unfortunately, this tree will not be prohibited from sale until October 1, 2030, despite the fact that it already dominates our landscapes, is susceptible to diseases and pests, and seriously disrupts ecosystems.

While I applaud the actions by all stakeholders for banning these plants, it is unfortunate that these invasives will continue to infiltrate our landscapes during the phase out period(s) despite the IPC’s assertion that these plants are a detriment to the environment. Moreover, there is an abundance of plants that nurseries and garden centers could sell as alternatives to these invasives. I wish the bill could have included funds that would compensate growers for their investment, thereby taking invasive plants off the market instead of allowing a phase out period.

It is my hope that homeowners and landscapers will make a judicious effort to avoid purchasing any of these plants during the phase out periods. Our landscapes deserve so much better. For now, invasive warriors, let’s take the victory.

* The Invasive Plants Council (IPC) is the state-mandated body for updating invasive species legislation.

The winter months are hard-living for birds. Weather can be frigid and food scarce. Birds do have special adaptations for surviving in cold climates. Like us, they shiver to stay warm but birds have much higher metabolisms and burn more energy to stay warm. Feathers play an important role in providing insulation from the cold. Birds preen top feathers to make them water-resistant and fluff up inner feathers to keep them toasty and warm.

Small birds like bluebirds cuddle for warmth.

Bluebirds cuddling for warmth
Photo credit: creativecommons.org

They crowd together in evergreens, shrubs and vines to share body heat. They can also slow down their metabolism to conserve energy. Larger birds are also known to flock together in this way. Cavity nesters like nuthatches, titmice and downy woodpeckers’ shelter in tree cavities for warmth, protecting them from both weather and predators.

Still, studies show that birds like chickadees who have access to bird feeders do better than ones without, especially in extreme cold. Insects and plant sources are in short supply and finding food is a challenge for resident birds as well as those that traveled down from the arctic.

During the frosty season, especially like one we’re experiencing this January, it is important to provide birds with good quality high-energy foods. A great choice is suet, a source of fat that helps birds stay warm during the day and ensures their survival during long, cold nights. Birds that enjoy suet include chickadees, juncos, jays and redpolls. Downy, hairy, and red-bellied woodpeckers find suet feeders with wooden tail props easier to navigate. Other high-energy foods include unsalted peanuts, black oil sunflower and mealworms, a favorite of bluebirds. Finches, including goldfinches (hardly recognizable without their summer plumage), pine siskins and redpolls, absolutely love feeders filled with Niger seed.

Juncos and doves will visit feeders but mostly prefer to feed on the ground. When necessary, clearing a patch of snow to scatter some seed is helpful. This can be messy so frequent cleanup is recommended to prevent unwanted visitors. Using a tray or platform feeder is a less messy option.

It is really important to store seed in a dry place so it does not get damp. The best feeders are those that protect the food from the elements. Tube feeders and those with a roof or dome are best because when exposed to moisture, seeds have the potential for growing mold that can make birds sick. Bird feeders must also be cleaned regularly to prevent disease. This cannot be emphasized enough.

It is helpful to know what times of day to make food available for birds. On really cold winter nights, birds use up a lot of their energy reserves trying to stay warm so, at first light they quickly start searching for something to eat. Making sure feeders are full in the morning is extremely helpful. In late afternoon, about an hour or two before sunset, topping off the feeders gives birds that extra energy boost needed to survive frigid nights.

Of course, we still want to plant native seed, fruit and nut bearing trees and shrubs for our birds. Crabapple, dogwood, chokeberry, winterberry, oak and hazel are excellent choices and make beautiful additions to a yard. Having the right trees can also offer protection and shelter. Evergreens such as native spruce and pine are good choices since they provide cover all year long and especially in winter.

There are other ways of providing shelter for birds. If space allows, we can create a brush pile shelter. The National Audubon Society’s How to Build a Brush Pile for Birds are simple steps:  How to Build a Brush Pile for Birds | Audubon

It is also helpful to put up a roosting box for winter birds. The box has an entry hole at the bottom to keep the cold weather out and trap more heat inside. Bluebirds, chickadees, nuthatches, wrens and others will use these boxes for shelter.

Common Redpoll, a northern visitor
Photo credit: Cornell Lab, projectfeederwatch.org

Nesting boxes from the previous summer can also be used and are more beneficial if the box door can be flipped so the entry hole is at the bottom (like a roosting box) and any ventilation holes are covered to keep cold out.

As mentioned earlier, birds do have adaptations to survive the cold but if we can do some things to make their lives easier, it helps ensure their survival. Once the weather moderates and natural food sources become available, it will no longer be necessary to hang out our feeders and we can finally concentrate on our gardens.

When choosing trees for your property, the decision between native and non-native trees should not be taken lightly. The true value of a tree is for the vital role it plays in maintaining ecological balance, not solely as a decorative element in the landscape. Because native trees naturally occur in a specific geographic region or ecoregion, they are well-suited to the local climate and soils. And, having co-evolved with our native fauna, this relationship is critical. According to a study by Burghardt et al, 2010, properties landscaped with native plants support significantly more caterpillars and birds than properties dominated by non-native vegetation.

Keystone Plants

Native trees and plants with the highest value for supporting pollinators, birds and other wildlife are considered “keystone plants.” Just as the keystone of an archway holds all the other stones in place to secure the structure’s integrity, keystone plants are critical to the food web and in maintaining healthy communities. For many wildlife species, keystone plants are absolutely essential for completing their life cycles.

There are two types of keystone plants: (1) those plants needed to feed butterfly and moth caterpillars and (2) plants that provide for specialist bees, whose young require specific flower pollen. These plants, whether supporting caterpillars or specialist bees, are often referred to as “host plants.”

Here in the Northeast, we have an abundance of trees native to our region. While all natives are important for providing natural sources of food, shelter and nesting sites, keystone plants have specialized relationships with animal pollinators who are discerning about their food choices. Some plants provide for both caterpillars and bees and are particularly beneficial. When planting to support pollinators, birds and other wildlife, researchers recommend adding keystone plants to your landscape.

Entomologist Dr. Doug Tallamy and his research team at the University of Delaware have ranked trees for their ability to support butterfly and moth caterpillars. Topping the list for supporting caterpillars are our native oaks that host 534 caterpillar species, including Hairstreak butterflies. Willows and cherries come in at a close second, hosting over 450 species, including caterpillars of such butterflies as the Mourning Cloak, Viceroy and Eastern Tiger Swallowtail. Moths are often undervalued for the beneficial roles they play. They are an important food source for many wildlife species and especially birds, both as adults and as caterpillars. This is likely the reason moth populations far outnumber butterflies. Baby birds are fed caterpillars almost exclusively because they are easily digestible and nutritious. It should also be noted that moths are pollinators of the “night shift” for many plants with light-colored and fragrant flowers, such as primrose.

Work by Pollinator Conservationist Jarrod Fowler has focused on pollen specialist bees and the key plants that support them. These bees develop over time from egg to adult and their emergence coincides with a plant’s bloom. Early emerging bee specialists include Cellophane and Mining bees, who emerge in spring and seek out dogwood, maple, and willows as well as woodland flowers. While specialist bee populations are small, every bee species includes specialists who seek out specific plant pollen in order to feed their young. And while many trees such as Oak, Birch and Walnut are wind-pollinated and don’t require animal pollination for reproduction, they do attract bees interested in collecting their pollen for provisioning brood cells.

Many Introduced Trees are Harmful to Native Plants and Animals 

Norway Maple (Acer platanoides) is simply the worst tree one could choose to plant. Scientific evidence shows that this tree is undermining the health of regional forests. Norway maple leafs out earlier than our native maples, giving it a huge competitive advantage for light, water and nutrients. Large abundant seeds are easily spread by wind and willingly sprout in both sun and shade. Roots produce toxic chemicals that prohibit understory plant growth, especially for spring ephemerals. Norway maple does not support insect or bird populations and is not part of the food web. Invasive qualities, along with excessive use in our landscapes, make Norway maple a significant threat to Northeastern woodlands. Alternatives include native Maple, Oak, Elm, Tulip tree and Sweetgum.

Callery or Bradford Pear (Pyrus calleryana) is another overly-planted tree that escapes landscapes and invades natural places and disturbed areas. It is often chosen for its uniform look with tight upturned branches. However, this characteristic form is a weakness of the species, making it susceptible to wind and weather damage. White blossoms in early spring are very short-lived and also emit an unpleasant odor. Callery Pear escapes cultivation to creates dense thickets. In this way, it prevents establishment of native woodland vegetation. It does not support wildlife. Good alternatives include our native Alternate-leaved and Flowering Dogwoods, Redbud, and Shadbush. Callery Pear will be banned from sale in CT in October 2027.

Kousa Dogwood (Cornus kousa) is often recommended as an alternative to Flowering Dogwood for its disease resistance. How ironic that the Kousa Dogwood, indigenous to Asia, is likely responsible for bringing the anthracnose (fungus), which has attacked our native dogwoods, to America. Kousa is known to harbor the fungus without any visible signs. Genetic research suggests the pathogen is a 20^th century introduction with pattern of spread originating from our east and west coast seaports. No small coincidence that the timing of fungus’ appearance corresponds to the arrival of the Asian Kousa dogwood in America.

While Kousa berries are too large for most birds to swallow, our native dogwoods provide nutritious berries for many songbirds. A few birds can tolerate Kousa’s large fruits, which accounts for spread into natural areas. Many beautiful native trees, including Hawthorn and Sweetbay Magnolia, do provide for wildlife and are good alternatives.

Purple-Osier Willow (Salix purpurea) was originally planted along streams for erosion control but falls short in its support of terrestrial and aquatic food webs. Conversely, our native willows are host plants for butterflies such as Viceroy, Mourning Cloak and over four hundred additional species. Weeping Willow (Salix x penduline/Salix sepulcralis), while not a highly aggressive plant limited to moist areas, it has invaded wet meadows and roadsides in several states. Native alternatives are Black Willow, Pussy Willow and Shining Willow.

There is little doubt among scientists and conservationists that the choices we make in our landscapes affect local ecosystems and our overall environment. More important than ever, landscapes must be multi-functional. They can allow for artistic expression and be a source of natural beauty while providing for wildlife. Butterflies and moth caterpillars and specialist bee populations are most at risk because of their dependence on particular (host) plant(s) for their survival. Keystone plants are essential for supporting these “specialists.” We need to rethink the necessity of planting introduced ornamental trees not only because they fail to support pollinators, birds and other wildlife in our landscapes, but because many of them continue to invade our forests and woodlands, destroying the native flora on which wildlife depends. Clearly, not all trees are created equal.

The arrival of spring brings a flurry of activity with birds returning to join our winter birds in preparation for a new breeding season. Here are few things to keep in mind to help our avian friends:

1. Lights Out for Bird Migration – April 1 thru May 31. Most migratory birds travel over Connecticut at night because temperatures are cooler and winds less turbulent. They rely on dark skies, navigating by the moon and stars. Artificial lighting attracts and disorients birds which leads
   

   Night Sky

   to collisions with windows and other reflective materials. According to Menunkatuck Audubon, “the result is catastrophic: Almost 1 billion birds are killed in the United States every year.”

This spring, we can help prevent fatal collisions of returning migratory birds by flipping off the lights between the hours of 11 p.m. and 6 a.m. LightsOutCT.org suggests the following:

• Turn off all unnecessary outdoor and decorative lighting.
• Extinguish spot and flood lights.
• Down-shield exterior lights so they don’t spill over to areas not needed.
• Install motion detectors and timers to control lights.
• Reduce blue (cool) lights harmful to many animal species.
• Turn off nonessential interior lighting, especially on upper floors.
• When working at night, keep indoor light indoors, draw shades and drapes.

Minimizing outdoor lighting also preserves moths. Both adult moths and caterpillars are a large part of a birds’ diet.  Moths attracted to lights become exhausted and perish during the night.

2. Cats need to Stay Indoors. It is estimated that cats kill hundreds of millions of birds every year. While cats are just doing what comes naturally, we humans can prevent this needless killing.

It is a myth that cats are not truly happy unless they can go outdoors. I’ve heard it said that outdoor stimulation prevents destructive behavior like scratching furniture. In fact, this destructive behavior is more an indicator of an underlying issue. Consulting with a veterinarian can be helpful. Often something as simple as adding a scratching post or playscape solves the problem.

Another myth is that if a cat has always been allowed outdoors, transitioning to indoors is impossible. Nothing can be further from the truth. Feral cats aside, outdoor cats can make this transition and they are healthier for it. Fluffer-nutter, a female longhair, was abandoned and living in an outbuilding for several years at my husband’s place employment. When it became possible, she was captured, taken to the Vet for a well visit and brought home. After only a few months, Fluffer-nutter settled in to her comfy new surroundings with absolutely no interest in going outdoors. This story has been repeated since with other rescues, both male and female.

And, indoor cats are healthier and safer. Allowing them to roam increases their risk of contracting an infectious disease, picking up fleas and ticks, and non-targeted poisoning. Other potential risks include cars and predators such as dogs and coyotes. The chore of cleaning a litterbox is a small price to pay for the peace of mind that our pet is safe while preventing the needless slaughter of innocent songbirds.

3. Birds must have Indigenous Plants. Local natives provide the very best food, shelter and nesting sites that birds need for survival and reproduction. Plants introduced from Europe and Asia are not helpful. “Replacing native plant communities with non-native vegetation can devastate native insect
   

   Bird w berry

   biomass. When plants that share an evolutionary history with insect herbivores are replaced by non-native ornamental or invasive plant species, insect biomass per unit area can be reduced by up to 96%.” (Richard et al. 2019, Tallamy et al. 2020).

Butterflies, moths and other insects lay their eggs on indigenous plants because their leaves are food. Most rely on specific host plants in order to survive and prosper. Hungry birds seek out native plants to find these insects. Nestlings are fed caterpillars almost exclusively because they are soft, easily digested and nutritious.  It has been reported that between 6000-9000 caterpillars are required to raise a single clutch of baby chickadees. Additionally, adult moths are an important food source for many birds including, but not limited to, flycatchers and whippoorwills. So important are moths to the food web that they outnumber butterfly populations 16:1. We need not worry that plants will be defoliated however, because birds reduce this risk by the sheer volume of caterpillars consumed.

Food, shelter and nesting sites go hand in hand. And no plant illustrates this better than our native hawthorns (genus Crateagus). Hawthorns might just be the perfect tree for birds. Not only do hawthorns host 159 species of butterfly and moth caterpillars, but their dense branches keep nests secure during severe storms. Thorned branches add additional protection from predators. Finally, migrating birds returning home in spring will still find some berries to welcome them back.

Many native trees and shrubs have nutritious berries that are high in fats. Migrating songbirds rely on these plants to fuel their migration. Some high-quality berry plants include bayberry (Myrica (Morella) pensylvanica), arrowwood (Viburnum dentatum), gray dogwood (Cornus racemosa), spicebush, (Linderal benzoin) and Virginia creeper (Parthenocissus quinquefolia).

I recently read an opinion that opportunistic birds will readily make poor food choices; not unlike the irresistible temptation of a fast-food offering. I do not believe this is true for birds. A study published in Biological Conservation, (2020) shows that, even when exotic fruits are more abundant, “birds usually

Large seed Hawthorn

prefer and seek out native fruits,” Just as pollinators prefer plants they co-evolved with, birds do prefer plants with indigenous fruits, seeds and berries. Birds instinctively know they must choose fruits that contain the fats, carbohydrates and nutrients needed to survive the cold winter months. But when introduced plants from Europe and Asia are all they can find, they have to settle for nutrient poor berries. That is why we need to make better plant choices in our landscapes – adding indigenous plants, trees and shrubs.

There is nothing wrong with supplementing native berry and seed plants with bird feeders when temperatures plummet, especially during snowstorms and in late winter when many seeds and berries are depleted. According to the Cornell Lab of Ornithology, nighttime poses a challenge for surviving cold temperatures. Birds can shiver all night and deplete their fat reserves. The next day is crucial for them to replenish these reserves so they can survive the next night. Supplementing with high energy foods like black oil sunflower and suet can make all the difference until the weather moderates and insects and supporting plants emerge.

4. Water is So Important. Providing water all during the year is critical for birds, especially when no natural water source exists. Birds need water to rehydrate, preen their feathers to remove mites, and for reproduction. A birdbath or fountain with fresh clean water is important, especially when summer temperatures climb. Birds, like all creatures, need to quench their thirst. Water is often inaccessible in
   

   Bird at bath

   winter, under cover of ice and snow. Providing water for birds is even more critical during cold weather because water helps them align their feathers for insulation and waterproofing. Heated birdbaths work really well. Models that attach to deck railings are most convenient for monitoring and refilling as necessary.

Our reward in caring for birds is the thrill of watching our favorite avian flyer, be it cardinal, chickadee, or finch, taking sips or splashing around in a birdbath we provide. And with lots of native plants, trees and shrubs, you can be assured that birds will find your yard attractive. Often said and so very true, “if you plant it, they will come.”

Photos courtesy of Menukatuck Audubon Society, GoBotany, and Holly Kocet.

In days long past, our neighborhoods were quieter, especially on Sunday. Noisy leaf blowers were non-existent so people raked their leaves. Dads made piles for kids to jump in and leaves found their way to the compost pile eventually. There wasn’t the expectation that every leaf remnant needed to be swept away. It was understood that mulched leaves were free fertilizer.

Things sure have changed. There is no argument that these power tools have made our lives easier but at what cost? Before the advent of these noisy machines, you could hear birds chirping and bees buzzing. Now it’s just a constant din of high-powered mowers, leaf blowers, string trimmers and chain saws.

And these machines have gotten louder. My neighbor’s Xero Turn mower sounds like a Boeing 727 taking off. Most lawn care companies use these machines too because they are fast and easily maneuverable around obstacles like trees and gardens. Because these mowers turn on a dime, the operator can really fly, effectively tearing the turf in the process, leaving scars resembling crop circles.

Gasoline-powered leaf blowers also have serious downfalls, not least of which is noise pollution, which can lead to permanent hearing loss. Popular commercial blowers emit low frequency noise that exceeds 100 decibels. Low frequency noise carries over long distances and even permeates structures. According to the CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention), hearing loss occurs with prolonged exposure to 85 decibels.

High-power blowers and mowers also can cause respiratory harm when they stir up clouds of dust that contain pollen, mold, animal feces, heavy metals and chemicals from pesticides. And when gasoline and oil are mixed in these devices, they emit carbon monoxide and cancer-causing particulate matter inhaled by the operator and others in close proximity.

Environmental Harm. A recent study showed that operating a two-stroke gasoline blower for 30 minutes emits as many hydrocarbons as a Ford F-150 driving from Texas to Alaska. And while automobiles are regulated for carbon emissions, there are no regulations for any of these small off-road engines.

Blowing Leaves Kills Beneficial Insects. “The fallen leaf layer is actually really important wildlife habitat,” according to David Mizejewski, a naturalist with the National Wildlife Federation. “All sorts of creatures rely on [leaf cover] for their survival as a place where they can find food and cover, and in many cases even complete their life cycle.” This is true for native bees, butterflies, moths, fireflies and other beneficial insects that overwinter as adults, larvae or eggs. For example, a bumble bee queen overwinters all alone in a very shallow burrow, so leaf cover is critical for her survival. Moths and their caterpillars need protection because they are a hugely important food source for birds and other wildlife species. Wonder why firefly numbers aren’t what they used to be? In addition to loss of habitat and pesticides, we’re also blowing firefly larvae to smithereens!

It also makes good sense to leave the leaves in beds and gardens over winter to protect plant roots. Blowing leaves out of gardens is not recommended. Leaf cover protects plants from desiccation that occurs over winter when moisture is lacking as well as from the freezing and thawing that occurs in late winter. Leaves are also rich in nutrients, not treated with dyes as are commercial mulches, and they’re free!

Providing “soft landings” around trees is something people are catching onto for protecting beneficial insects. As E.O. Wilson put it, they are “the little things that run the world.” Planting under trees with perennials, ground covers and ferns and allowing leaves to fall where they may is ideal. Not only is this cover helpful to beneficial critters but the planted area acts as a buffer, protecting tree trunks from the overzealous weed-whacking that could damage trees. No need for mulch. Leaves not only offer protection but add nutrients that ensure healthy and beautiful plants. And soft landing areas also save time (and money) when most of us would rather being doing just about anything else than cleaning up leaves this time of year.

“Leave the Leaves” has become a popular slogan. Not to say heavy layers of leaves must be left on lawn areas. But leaves are nutrient-rich so leaving some mulched leaves will benefit the lawn. Small leaves like maples will shrivel as they dry and are easily reduced by mower mulching. Of course, when leaves are heavier, a mower bagger makes sense. Bagged contents can then be added to plant beds for added protection or placed in a designated compost area to create rich garden soil. We want to avoid leaf blowers when we can.

These days, we are asked to rethink our garden practices, especially for large manicured lawns that require huge inputs of fertilizers, chemicals and water. These are dead zones for any kind of wildlife and significant polluters of our streams and aquifers. Lawn chemical manufacturers effectively lure landowners with their promise of a healthy green lawn. In truth, their products are neither healthy or “green.” Reducing lawn areas is a healthier solution. And hopefully this will reduce the use of deafening leaf blowers that contribute to polluting our air and spoiling our communities.

Kudos to the Town of Westport for their ordinance, approved in January, limiting the use of gas-powered backpack and handheld leaf blowers. The ordinance specifies hours during which both gas-powered and electric-powered leaf blowers can be used. It further prohibits the use of these gas-powered blowers on any state and federal holiday and even prohibits their use on Sundays! Also, beginning in May 2024, residents may not use gas-powered hand-held or backpack blowers during summer months (May 15 – Oct. 15). While Westport’s ordinance doesn’t cover the large blower machines or restrict fall cleanup activity, it is certainly a step in the right direction and the only town thus far to address leaf blowers as a serious health concern.

There is no question we would be far better off without the disturbance caused by these high-powered machines. Our songbirds and other wildlife would not be subjected to noise that disturbs and frightens them. We would preserve overwintering beneficial insects. Even our pets, frightened by loud noises, would be happier. And our neighborhoods would be quieter, more peaceful and healthier places to live.

Less than 100 years ago, a person could look up into the night sky and see thousands of bright stars. Today, widespread and ever-increasing artificial light makes this impossible in many places across the globe. This excessive use of artificial light is light pollution. Just as with pollution of our water and air, light pollution can have serious environmental consequences for humans, wildlife and even our climate.

Plants and animals depend on the Earth’s daily cycle of light and dark. For animals, this is important for life-sustaining behaviors such as reproduction, sleep, and protection from predators. There is scientific evidence that artificial light can have deadly effects on many creatures from hummingbirds to wallabies. Birds that migrate at night are navigating by moonlight and starlight. Each year, artificial light is responsible for millions of deadly bird collisions with buildings and towers. Monarch butterflies also rely on darkness. This is when they process proteins that are key to their internal compass that points the way towards their wintering grounds and return. Researchers found that butterflies roosting near porch or streetlights are disoriented the next day. Amphibians like frogs and toads are nighttime breeders so lights interfere with reproduction thus reducing populations. Sea turtle hatchlings must get from the beach to the sea. They can only find their way by detecting the bright horizon over the ocean. Artificial lights draw them away from the water and each year millions die in this way.

This time of year, we are hopeful for witnessing fireflies blinking along woodland edges and in moist meadows as we did in our youth. But more and more fireflies are disappearing. Most researchers believe loss of habitat due to increased housing and commercial development is a main factor. Open fields and forests are being destroyed. Increased activity along waterways is also detrimental to these valuable critters whose larvae are hugely beneficial for controlling snails and slugs. There is no question pesticides are having a detrimental effect on all invertebrate species, especially fireflies. Mosquito spraying, for example, is totally ineffective for mosquito control but does kill fireflies and many other beneficial insects.

And, it should come to no surprise that artificial light is extremely harmful to fireflies who need to communicate with one another to find mates. Lights from homes, cars, businesses and streetlights, make it difficult for fireflies to signal each other, resulting in fewer larvae born the following season.

Much of our outdoor night lighting is inefficient and, in many cases, unnecessary. Artificial lighting is often overly bright and improperly shielded. Light spills into the night sky instead of focusing on objects for which the light is intended. According to a 2016 study, 80% of the world’s population lives under sky glow which is an artificial brightening of the sky. These polluted skies are of world-wide concern.

But unlike other forms of pollution, light pollution can be reversible if we take the appropriate steps.  Each one of us can make a difference. The International Dark-Sky Association indicates Five Lighting Principles for Responsible Outdoor Lighting.

1. Use light only if it is needed. Consider how the light will impact wildlife and their habitats.
2. Direct light so it falls only where it is needed. Shield lighting to point downward and so it does not spill     beyond the targeted area.
3. Light should be no brighter than necessary. Use only the lowest light level needed.

4. Use light only when it is necessary. Timers or motion detectors ensure light is available as needed.

5. Use warmer color lights where possible. Limit the amount of shorter wavelength (blue-violet) light.

Lights Out Connecticut, Lightsoutct.org, also suggests keeping blinds and shades drawn to keep light inside, especially on upper floors and when working at night.

Good news!  On June 27^th, Governor Lamont signed Substitute House Bill No. 6607, Public Act No. 23-143 – An Act Concerning the Nighttime Lighting of State-owned Buildings at Certain Times for the Protection of Birds – requiring state-owned and leased buildings to turn off nonessential outdoor lighting during peak avian migration periods in order to assist in preventing birds from flying into the sides of such buildings. Nonessential outdoor lighting shall be turned off between the hours of eleven o’clock p.m. and six o’clock a.m.

There’s much more to do. It is important for our Garden Clubs to continue our efforts as leaders in our communities on all environmental and conservation issues.  Members are highly qualified with vast experience as gardeners, master gardeners, birders, activists and educators. The public isn’t always aware of the negative impacts of practices such as excessive use of artificial lights. As ambassadors, we can help bring awareness to this growing problem and inspire more people to take necessary steps to protect our natural night sky that will benefit us and the wildlife with whom we share this world. For more information, visit www.DarkSky.org