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Pesticide-Free Parks Announced by Dept of Parks and Rec., Pr. Geo. County
May 11, 2022
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: May 11, 2022
Media Contact: Angel Waldron, 301-446-3311
Department of Parks and Recreation, Prince George’s County Announces Pesticide-Free Parks
Riverdale, MD – The Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission, Department of Parks and Recreation in Prince George’s County announces it has completed steps to make all 249 playgrounds, dog parks, and 132 of its parks now pesticide-free as a part of its mission to conserve and protect natural spaces and species.
The Department of Parks and Recreation is reducing its environmental impact by implementing more sustainable efforts and initiatives. After careful review of best practices, the Department has decreased the use of pesticides in its overall parks and increased the use of manual, mechanical and organic means to control pests. It will also reduce the number of ornamental landscape beds that can significantly decrease the need for pesticides.
In addition, the Department has launched a 48-hour pesticide pre-notification requirement for all pesticide applications on parkland that will be available on the new Integrated Pest Management & Sustainability website. The site will also have the list of parks that are pesticide free. Visit Integrated Pest Management Program and Pesticide Use (pgparks.com) for more details.
The Department reviews best practices for land management, along with effective organic options to implement pesticide reduction efforts in support of its Sustainability Plan. It recently launched Mission Zero – a long-term sustainability initiative that aims to reduce environmental footprint as close to zero as possible by 2040.
About the Department
The M-NCPPC, Department of Parks and Recreation delivers an award-winning park system through progressive, innovative leadership and a commitment to the community and the environment in Prince George’s County. For more on the Department of Parks and Recreation, visit www.pgparks.com and stay connected on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. The Department of Parks and Recreation encourages and supports the participation of individuals with disabilities in all programs and services. Register at least a minimum of two weeks in advance of the program start date to request and receive a disability accommodation.
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