Yard Ethic Certification
Join the Yard Ethic community by utilizing these checklists to implement practices that save money, beautify your yard, conserve water, reduce stormwater pollution and create habitat.
Download a printable copy of the Yard Ethic Certification Checklist.
Download a copy of the Yard Ethic Program Booklet.
Silver Level
Take the Yard Ethic pledge, and complete three items from the list below.
- Lawn Steward free soil test: receive nutrient management plan and strive for 5% organic matter.
- Rainwater harvesting: install a rain barrel or larger rainwater harvesting system with a minimum, 50-gallon capacity.
- Rain garden or bioswale: collects runoff from impervious surface and includes native plants.
- Pollinator planting: use native plants to landscape at least 100 sq. ft. of yard. Includes a minimum of 4 species with at least 2 that are beneficial for pollinators.
- Tree canopy: tree canopy coverage of 15% of lot (based on mature size) with existing trees (does not include invasive species) or by planting native or fruit/nut trees, using “right tree, right place” principles.
- Compost organic waste: use of a compost pile or bin for organic waste, including food waste, using proper composting practices.
Gold Level
Take the Yard Ethic pledge, and complete five items from the list below.
- Lawn Steward free soil test (required): receive nutrient management plan and strive for 5% organic matter.
- Rainwater harvesting: install a rain barrel or larger rainwater harvesting system with a minimum, 100-gallon capacity.
- Rain garden or bioswale: collects runoff from impervious surface and includes native plants.
- Pollinator planting: use native plants to landscape at least 200 sq. ft. of yard. Includes a minimum of 8 species with at least 4 that are beneficial for pollinators.
- Tree canopy: tree canopy coverage of 25% of lot (based on mature size) with existing trees (does not include invasive species) or by planting native or fruit/nut trees, using “right tree, right place” principles.
- Compost organic waste: use of a compost pile or bin for organic waste, including food waste, using proper composting practices.
- Build the community: share your Yard Ethic story and refer a neighbor (must obtain certification). A minimum of 150 words and 2 photos required.