Maryland State House Celebrates 10 Years of Chemical Free Lawn Care

ANNAPOLIS, MD – The Department of General Service today announced that 2022 will mark Maryland State House’s 10th year in which the grounds will use exclusively chemicals-free pesticides and fertilizers.
“Maryland was one of the first state houses in the country to make a commitment to use chemical-free pesticides and fertilizers,” Governor Hogan said. “I am proud to announce our 10 year celebration on National Pollution Control Day and to encourage other state and local governments to follow Maryland’s example.”
In 2010, the Chesapeake Bay cabinet called on states to switch to biological land maintenance to reduce pesticide runoff into the bay. In 2011, the State House grounds were assessed and the necessary steps for the transition were created, and by 2012, the Maryland State House Organic Land Project had begun.
“As managers of state-owned facilities, DGS works tirelessly to ensure that the State House grounds are healthy and vibrant,” said Department of General Services Secretary Ellington E. Churchill, Jr. “Maryland State House’s Lawn Maintenance Procedures can be a perfect model for the rest of the state and as well as the nation as they move on to chemical-free lawn care.
The Maryland State House Organic Land Project has replaced traditional gardening practices with chemical-free gardening on State House grounds. The goal of the project was to improve the health and appearance of the State House lawn, as well as to help protect public health and natural resources, such as the Chesapeake Bay.
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About the DGS: The Department of General Services is responsible for essential services and programs administered on behalf of the State, including the procurement of goods and services; design, build, lease, manage and maintain facilities; lead energy conservation efforts; administer the state investment grant program; and providing essential services such as fuel management, disposal of surplus assets and records management. The Maryland Capitol Police Department of General Services provides security and safety for state buildings.