INSERT INTO `wp_posts` VALUES (3107,2,'2016-03-28 00:01:28','2016-03-28 00:01:28','<img class=\"alignnone  wp-image-244\" src=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/iStock_000015557555Large-Pillars.jpg\" alt=\"Pillars of Law and Information at the United States Supreme Court\" width=\"500\" height=\"290\" />\r\n<h1>Advancing Toxic-Free Policies</h1>\r\nMidwest Pesticide Action Center protects communities’ air, water, and wildlife from the dangerous health and environmental impacts of pesticides. To achieve this goal, we work with local and regional governments to limit pesticide use and empower the public to protect themselves through education about these toxic chemicals.\r\n\r\nTogether, we work to make pesticide reduction an essential element on legislative agendas. Midwest Pesticide Action Center played an instrumental role in the success of the following policies:\r\n\r\nContinue reading for: <a href=\"#Schools\">State of Illinois Integrated Pest Management in Schools Law</a>, <a href=\"#Lawn\">State of Illinois Lawn Care Products Application and Notice Act</a>, <a href=\"#Parents\">State of Illinois Parents Right-to-Know Law</a>, <a href=\"#Ordinance\">City of Chicago Bed Bug Ordinance</a>, <a href=\"#Evanston\">The City of Evanston Sustainable Pest Control and Pesticide-Reduction Resolution</a>,<a name=\"Schools\"></a> <a href=\"#FP\">The Village of Franklin Park Sustainable Pest-Control Resolution</a>\r\n<h2>State of Illinois Integrated Pest Management in Schools Law</h2>\r\nIllinois requires schools and licensed childcare facilities to adopt an Integrated Pest Management program. Illinois law, also, requires public schools and licensed childcare centers to stop routine pesticide spraying and to notify parents and staff before applying indoor pesticides.<a name=\"Lawn\"></a>\r\n<a class=\"more\" href=\"http://www.ilga.gov/legislation/publicacts/pubact91/acts/91-0525.html\" target=\"_blank\">Learn More</a>\r\n<h2>State of Illinois Lawn Care Products Application and Notice Act</h2>\r\nThe Illinois Lawn Care Products Application and Notice Act requires pesticide companies to place markers on lawns at the time of application and provide the customer with information on the product used. In addition, any adjacent neighbor has a legal right to be notified in advance of neighbors’ pesticide applications. If you request a notification, the company hired by your neighbor must contact you one day ahead in person or by telephone to let you know what they will apply, and the date and approximate time of application.<a name=\"Parents\"></a> <a class=\"more\" href=\"http://www.ilga.gov/legislation/publicacts/pubact91/acts/91-0099.html\" target=\"_blank\">Learn More</a>\r\n<h2>State of Illinois Parents Right-to-Know Law</h2>\r\nThe Parents Right-to-Know Law amends the Lawn Care Products Application and Notice Act, administered by the Illinois Department of Agriculture, by requiring schools and childcare facilities to provide notification prior to the application of pesticides on school grounds. Parents must receive a written notification via a newsletter, bulletin, calendar, or other correspondence published by the school district.<a name=\"Ordinance\"></a> <a class=\"more\" href=\"http://www.ilga.gov/legislation/publicacts/fulltext.asp?Name=096-0424\" target=\"_blank\">Learn More</a>\r\n<h2>City of Chicago Bed Bug Ordinance</h2>\r\nOn June 5th, 2013, Chicago became one of the first U.S. cities to pass a comprehensive bed bug ordinance.  Midwest Pesticide Action Center has long advocated for the ordinance, which began with our report,  <em><a href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-Battling-Bed-Bugs.pdf\">Battling Bed Bugs in Chicago: Making the Case for a Comprehensive Plan</a></em><i>,</i> submitted to the mayor\'s office in 2011. Sponsored by Ray Suarez of the 31st Ward, Harry Osterman of the 48th Ward, and Debra Silverstein of the 50th Ward, this ordinance requires property owners to provide pest-control management utilizing proven best practices.\r\n\r\nThe ordinance also outlines responsibilities for tenants and business owners and directs the Department of Public Health to develop an educational campaign with the most current information on bed bug control on its website. Non-compliance will result in fines for property owners of up to $2,000 a day for failing to take steps to eradicate bed bug infestations.<a name=\"Evanston\"></a> <a class=\"more\" href=\"http://chicago.legistar.com/LegislationDetail.aspx?ID=1255501&amp;GUID=CED19AF3-ADD2-4771-BDDB-04923461D3AC&amp;Options=Advanced&amp;Search=\" target=\"_blank\">Learn More</a><i><span style=\"color: #1f497d; font-family: Calibri; font-size: medium;\"><span style=\"color: #1f497d; font-family: Calibri; font-size: medium;\"><span style=\"color: #1f497d; font-family: Calibri; font-size: medium;\">\r\n</span></span></span></i>\r\n<h2>The City of Evanston Sustainable Pest Control and Pesticide-Reduction Resolution</h2>\r\nThe City of Evanston serves as a model on the use of sustainable pest control and natural lawn care practices and illustrates how to increase awareness. In 2010, the city created the Sustainable Pest Control and Pesticide Reduction Resolution. This resolution reduces the use of pesticides through the use of sustainable pest-control practices on city-owned or leased property and educates the public and private sectors. Midwest Pesticide Action Center played an instrumental role in authoring the policy, working with city staff and the environment board for nearly two years on this initiative.<a name=\"FP\"></a> <a class=\"more\" href=\"http://www.cityofevanston.org/pdf/20-R-10IntegratedPestManagement3-16-2010.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Learn More</a> <a title=\"Learn More\" href=\"http://www.cityofevanston.org/pdf/20-R-10IntegratedPestManagement3-16-2010.pdf\" target=\"_blank\"><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"><span style=\"color: #0000ff; font-family: Calibri; font-size: medium;\"><span style=\"color: #0000ff; font-family: Calibri; font-size: medium;\"><span style=\"color: #0000ff; font-family: Calibri; font-size: medium;\">\r\n</span></span></span></span></a>\r\n<h2>The Village of Franklin Park Sustainable Pest-Control Resolution</h2>\r\nThe Village of Franklin Park’s resolution put in place a sustainable pest control and pesticide policy, which requires the reduction of pesticide applications on village-owned or leased property to the maximum extent feasible with the least toxic Integrated Pest Management techniques. The village used the Evanston Sustainable Pest Control and Pesticide Reduction Resolution as inspiration. <a class=\"more\" href=\"http://www.spcpweb.org/attachments/FranklinParkFullResolutionText.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Learn More</a> <a title=\"Learn More\" href=\"http://www.spcpweb.org/attachments/FranklinParkFullResolutionText.pdf\" target=\"_blank\"><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"><span style=\"color: #0000ff; font-family: Calibri; font-size: medium;\"><span style=\"color: #0000ff; font-family: Calibri; font-size: medium;\"><span style=\"color: #0000ff; font-family: Calibri; font-size: medium;\">\r\n</span></span></span></span></a>\r\n<h3>For More Information</h3>\r\n<strong>Laws to Protect you from Outdoor Pesticides:</strong> For information about the laws in place to protect you from outdoor pesticides in Illinois. <a class=\"more\" title=\"Laws to Protect You\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-Laws-to-Protect-you-from-Outdoor-Pesticides.pdf\">\r\nLearn More </a>\r\n\r\n<strong>Notification Guidelines – Parents Rights to Know:</strong> For information on your rights to protect your children where they learn and play. <a class=\"more\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/ParentsRight-to-Know-NotificationGuidelines.pdf\">Learn More</a>\r\n\r\n<a class=\"more\" title=\"View all Resources\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/what-you-can-do/all-resources/\">View all resources</a>','Advancing Toxic-Free Policies','','inherit','closed','open','','221-revision-v1','','','2016-03-28 00:01:28','2016-03-28 00:01:28','',221,'http://midwestpesticideaction.org/221-revision-v1/',0,'revision','',0),(3108,2,'2016-03-28 00:02:03','2016-03-28 00:02:03','<h1><a href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/iStock_000001262286Large-Bedroom-e1380746954290.jpg\"><img class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-375\" src=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/iStock_000001262286Large-Bedroom-e1380746954290.jpg\" alt=\"Bedroom\" width=\"500\" height=\"289\" /></a></h1>\r\n<h1>Beating Back Bed Bugs</h1>\r\nOne out of every five Americans has had a bed bug infestation in their home or knows someone who has. Bed bugs can live everywhere—from single-family homes, apartment buildings, and shelters, to office buildings and hotels. Residents, building managers, and businesses take desperate measures to control these tenacious pests, often leading to dangerous use and misuse of pesticides that aggravate asthma and cause unnecessary exposure to high levels of chemicals. Minimal use of pesticides can safely and effectively control Bed bugs. Midwest Pesticide Action Center holds training events, workshops, and has developed outreach materials to educate residents and institutions on how to spot early signs of bed bug infestations, response strategies, and effective treatment options. Continue reading<a name=\"Events\"></a> for: <a href=\"#Events\">Bed Bugs and Chicago Training Events</a>, <a href=\"#Outreach\">Outreach that Informs and Empowers</a>, <a href=\"#Policy\">Policy Making</a>, <a href=\"#Change\">Making Institutional Change</a>\r\n<h2>Bed Bugs and Chicago Training Events</h2>\r\nBeing informed and aware is the best way of controlling bed bugs. We hold training events throughout Chicago and provide a basic knowledge of bed bug behavior and control.\r\n<ul>\r\n	<li>We offer sessions to residents, landlords, and business owners.</li>\r\n	<li>Designed in a “Train the Trainer” format, we provide attendees with materials and tools to share what they learn with their own organizations and residents.</li>\r\n	<li>Bed Bugs in Chicago has trained over 3,100 individuals and impacted an estimated 144,000 households.</li>\r\n	<li>Visit the <a href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/mpac-events/\">Upcoming Events Page</a> to sign up for the next training.</li>\r\n	<li>Subscribe to our e-newsletter to be alerted when new events are<a name=\"Outreach\"></a> scheduled.</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/2013-Regional-Bedbug-Flyer-Banner-2.jpg\"><img class=\" wp-image-911 aligncenter\" src=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/2013-Regional-Bedbug-Flyer-Banner-2-1024x411.jpg\" alt=\"2013 Regional Bedbug Flyer Banner 2\" width=\"410\" height=\"164\" /></a></p>\r\n\r\n<h2>Outreach That Informs and Empowers</h2>\r\nWe provide a number of resources that inform landlords and residents on their rights and responsibilities when it comes to bed bug treatment.\r\n<ul>\r\n	<li><a href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/BITE-Back-Volume-12-Page-1.jpg\"><img class=\" wp-image-913 alignright\" src=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/BITE-Back-Volume-12-Page-1-791x1024.jpg\" alt=\"BITE Back Volume 12 Page 1\" width=\"230\" height=\"298\" /></a>The <a href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/MPAC-BITE-Back-newsletters-vol.1-11.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">B.I.T.E. Back! Newsletter</a> explores new options on controlling bed bugs and how to make informed decisions when paying for services and products.</li>\r\n	<li>We have many materials in Spanish, and some in Polish, French, and Mandarin.</li>\r\n	<li>Participating in and hosting information sessions on the Chicago Bed Bug<a name=\"Policy\"></a> Ordinance.</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n<h2>Policy Making</h2>\r\nMidwest Pesticide Action Center works to impact the greatest number of people for the greatest good.\r\n<ul>\r\n	<li>As part of our appointment duties to the Structural Pest Control Task Force,<a href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/11/MPAC-Battling-Bed-Bugs-page-0-e1385066657229.jpg\"><img class=\"size-full wp-image-1094 alignright\" src=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/11/MPAC-Battling-Bed-Bugs-page-0-e1385066657229.jpg\" alt=\"MPAC Battling Bed Bugs-page-0\" width=\"245\" height=\"317\" /></a> we worked with the state on the <a href=\"http://spcpweb.org/attachments/SOBBREPORT_10_14_11Final.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">State of Bed Bugs in Illinois report</a>, which makes recommendations regarding next steps for the state’s response to the bed bug problem.</li>\r\n	<li>Midwest Pesticide Action Center helped the City of Chicago’s City Council to <a href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/what-we-do/advancing-toxic-free-policies/\">pass the public health-protection ordinance</a> on bed bugs, which classifies bed bugs as a public nuisance.</li>\r\n	<li>The ordinance passed in 2013 and was based on the 2011 Midwest Pesticide Action Center Report: Bed Bugs: Making the Case for a Comprehensive<a name=\"Change\"></a> Approach.</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n<h2>Making Institutional Change</h2>\r\nThrough customized training, workshops, and one-on-one education, Midwest Pesticide Action Center works with institutions and building managers to develop strategies for structural and mechanical methods, monitoring, sanitation, and non-chemical and least-toxic treatments for the control of bed bugs and helps ensures the health of thousands of people. A short list of institutions we have worked with includes:\r\n<ul>\r\n	<li>Chicago Housing Authority</li>\r\n	<li>Heartland Alliance</li>\r\n	<li>Chicago Department of Family Support Services</li>\r\n	<li>Mercy Housing</li>\r\n	<li>LUCHA</li>\r\n	<li>The University of Arizona</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n<blockquote>“We provide homes for the most vulnerable populations of society and have been greatly affected by the resurgence of bedbugs in the area. Our experience with this ‘new normal’ has really affected us and [Midwest Pesticide Action Center] has been an excellent ally in advising us on early detection and providing training resources for both our staff and participants. The training and informative resources [Midwest Pesticide Action Center] has provided to our organization are priceless.” - Director of Property Management, Heartland Housing</blockquote>\r\nContact Ruth Kerzee at rkerzee@pesticideaction.org if your organization is interested in working with Midwest Pesticide Action Center. The<a title=\"Polk Bros. Foundation\" href=\"http://www.polkbrosfdn.org/\" target=\"_blank\"> Polk Bros. Foundation</a> and the <a title=\"City of Chicago Bed Bug Information\" href=\"http://www.cityofchicago.org/city/en/depts/bacp/supp_info/bed_bug_information.html\" target=\"_blank\">City of Chicago</a> funds most of our Beating Back Bed Bugs program.\r\n<h3>For More Information</h3>\r\n<strong>University of Arizona Bed Bug Survey: </strong>Learn more about the study and take the survey to help researchers understand the factors behind bed bug infestations. <a title=\"University of Arizona Bed Bug Survey\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/university-of-arizona-bed-bug-survey/\">Learn More</a>\r\n\r\n<strong>Battling Bed Bugs in Chicago- Making the Case for a Comprehensive Plan: </strong>Policy paper produced by Midwest Pesticide Action Center. <a class=\"more\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-Battling-Bed-Bugs.pdf\">Learn More</a>\r\n\r\n<strong>Chicago Bed Bug Ordinance:</strong> The City of Chicago passes a comprehensive public health-protection ordinance on bed bug control. <a class=\"more\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/what-we-do/advancing-toxic-free-policies/\">Learn More </a>\r\n\r\n<strong>B.I.T.E. Back!</strong> We have 11 previous issues of the BITE Back! newsletter, which provides timely information on bed bug treatment and control. <a class=\"more\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/MPAC-BITE-Back-newsletters-vol.1-11.pdf\">Download All Issues </a>\r\n\r\n<strong>In Your Home:</strong> For tips on controlling the spread of bed bugs by making smart decisions. <a class=\"more\" title=\"In Your Home\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/what-you-can-do/in-your-home/\">Learn More</a>\r\n\r\n<strong>View Resources</strong> in multiple languages for efficient and safe ways to control bed bugs.  <a class=\"more\" title=\"View all Resources\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/what-you-can-do/all-resources/\">Learn More</a>','Beating Back Bed Bugs','','inherit','closed','open','','216-revision-v1','','','2016-03-28 00:02:03','2016-03-28 00:02:03','',216,'http://midwestpesticideaction.org/216-revision-v1/',0,'revision','',0),(3109,2,'2016-03-28 00:02:23','2016-03-28 00:02:23','<h1><a href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/water-e1380748048293.jpg\"><img class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-386\" src=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/water-e1380748048293.jpg\" alt=\"water\" width=\"500\" height=\"290\" /></a></h1>\r\n<h1>Preserving Water Quality</h1>\r\nMidwest Pesticide Action Center protects water resources by promoting healthy lawn and landscape practices. Maintaining healthy rivers, streams, brooks, and lakes is vitally important to the health and wellbeing of the areas we inhabit, protecting wildlife, and securing safe, clean drinking water.\r\n\r\nContinue reading for <a name=\"L2L\"></a> for: <a href=\"#L2L\">Lawn to Lake</a>, <a href=\"#LS\">Lawn to Lake Successes</a>, <a href=\"#Training\">Training</a>\r\n<h3>Lawn to Lake</h3>\r\nThe Great Lakes are a vital natural resource. They represent approximately 20 percent of the world’s fresh surface water and provide habitat for more than 100 species of rare plants and animals. Additionally, 42 million people depend on the Great Lakes for their drinking water. Midwest Pesticide Action Center partners with Lawn to Lake, a regional collaboration, to protect water resources in the Lake Michigan basin.\r\n\r\nOur outreach and training program promotes healthier landscape practices to reduce pollution. With funding from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s Great Lakes Restoration Initiative, Midwest Pesticide Action Center and its partners in the Lawn to Lake Program help professional landscapers, municipalities, and homeowners make better decisions in how they maintain their outdoor spaces.\r\n\r\nThe Lawn to Lake Program, lead by the <a href=\"http://www.iiseagrant.org/\">Illinois-Indiana Sea Grant</a> and supported by the <a title=\"Great Lakes Restoration Initiative\" href=\"http://greatlakesrestoration.us/\" target=\"_blank\">Great Lakes Restorations Initiative</a>, is comprised of the following organizations:\r\n\r\n<a name=\"LS\"></a>\r\n<ul>\r\n	<li><a href=\"http://www.uvm.edu/seagrant/\">Lake Champlain Sea Grant</a>,</li>\r\n	<li><a href=\"http://web.extension.illinois.edu/state/\">University of Illinois Extension</a>,</li>\r\n	<li><a href=\"http://www.nirpc.org/\">Northwestern Indiana Regional Planning Commission</a>, and</li>\r\n	<li><a href=\"http://www.cmap.illinois.gov/\">Chicago Metropolitan Agency for Planning</a></li>\r\n</ul>\r\n<h3>Lawn to Lake Successes</h3>\r\nSince its inception, the Lawn to Lake Program has made significant progress toward making the Great Lakes waters less polluted and safer. To date, we have:\r\n<ul>\r\n	<li>Helped 318,066 residents move to natural lawn care through outreach and education;</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n<ul>\r\n	<li>Reduced weed and feed use by an estimated 1,021,453 pounds; and</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n<ul>\r\n	<li>Reduced pesticide use by an estimated 7,864<a name=\"Training\"></a> pounds</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n<h3>Training</h3>\r\nMidwest Pesticide Action Center holds collaborative workshops in the Midwest so that landscape professionals, municipal leaders, grounds keepers, master gardeners, and residents can learn about the connection between lawn care and water quality and how to create naturally beautiful lawns and landscapes.\r\n\r\nOur most recent event, held in April of 2013,  targeted landscapers. The Lawn to Lake Sustainable Lawn and Landscape Care Workshop successfully trained over 50 professionals in sustainable lawn and landscape care practices and how to communicate the benefits to their clients. The workshop impacted an estimated 13,780 homeowners.\r\n\r\nFor future events, visit our <a title=\"Events\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/mpac-events/\">Training and Events</a> page. If you would like to host training with Midwest Pesticide Action Center, contact Ryan Anderson at <a href=\"mailto:rkerzee@pesticideaction.org\">randerson@pesticideaction.org</a>.\r\n<h3>For More Information</h3>\r\n<strong>Activist\'s Toolkit</strong>: For information on advocating for healthy spaces in your community. <a class=\"more\" title=\"Activist\'s Toolkit\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-The-Activists-Toolkit.pdf\">Learn More</a>\r\n\r\n<strong>Midwest Grows Green: </strong>For information on reducing the climate impacts associated with lawn and garden care. <a class=\"more\" title=\"Activist\'s Toolkit\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/midwest-grows-green/\">Learn More</a>\r\n\r\n<strong>In Your Home:</strong> For tips on reducing your impact on water quality by making smart decisions in your home. <a class=\"more\" title=\"In Your Home\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/what-you-can-do/in-your-home/\">Learn More</a>\r\n\r\n<a class=\"more\" title=\"View All Resources\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/what-you-can-do/all-resources/\">View All Resources</a>','Preserving Water Quality','','inherit','closed','open','','250-revision-v1','','','2016-03-28 00:02:23','2016-03-28 00:02:23','',250,'http://midwestpesticideaction.org/250-revision-v1/',0,'revision','',0),(3110,2,'2016-03-28 00:02:45','2016-03-28 00:02:45','<h1><a href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/1500-x-1835-MowingLawn-e1380812811339.jpg\"><img class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-439\" src=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/1500-x-1835-MowingLawn-e1380812811339.jpg\" alt=\"Push Mower\" width=\"499\" height=\"290\" /></a></h1>\r\n<h1>Reducing Climate Impact</h1>\r\nHere in the Midwest, climate change causes warmer temperatures, heavier rainstorms, more frequent and severe droughts, and earlier plant blooms.  These changes make it increasingly difficult to maintain and enjoy our beautiful outdoor spaces.\r\n\r\nHowever, our lawns and gardens are not just victims of climate change: the practices and products we use to maintain our outdoor spaces such as over-watering, fertilizer use, and weed killer applications, all contribute to the production of greenhouse gas emissions. Midwest Pesticide Action Center seeks to engage the community in efforts to have the least possible impact on climate change.\r\n\r\nEach of us can do something about climate change right now, starting in our own backyards.\r\n<h2>Midwest Grows Green<img class=\"alignright wp-image-2568 size-medium\" src=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/09/Guide-for-Participating-Retailers-Cover-233x300.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"233\" height=\"300\" /></h2>\r\nMidwest Pesticide Action Center created the Midwest Grows Green initiative to help educate residents on maintaining their lawns and gardens in a climate friendly and toxic-free way.\r\n\r\nChicago contributes roughly 34.6 million metric tons of heat-trapping greenhouse gases to the atmosphere each year. Add the six surrounding counties and this number increases to 103 million metric tons. To put it in perspective, the Chicago area accounts for nearly half the total emissions of Illinois.\r\n\r\nSummer of 2015 marked the launch of the <a href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/midwest-grows-green/\" target=\"_blank\">Midwest Grows Green</a> initiative in Chicago and surrounding communities with four participating retail stores.\r\n\r\nThrough the Midwest Grows Green initiative, Midwest Pesticide Action Center partners with hardware stores and home and garden centers in Cook County to provide:\r\n<ul>\r\n	<li>Useful information to customers and staff on how to reduce emissions through safe lawn-care practices.</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n<ul>\r\n	<li>Workshops, videos, and printed materials to retailers in order to help customers make environmentally friendly lawn and garden choices.</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n<ul>\r\n	<li>The knowledge that customers need to make informed decisions on buying tools and products that solve the problem at hand but also promote a reduction in greenhouse gas emissions.</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n<a href=\"https://www.google.com/maps/d/viewer?mid=z0NpuST4PjXo.kc1Y1GG5_2jI\"><img class=\" wp-image-2818 alignright\" src=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/Map-of-Participating-Retailers-Pilot-300x204.jpg\" alt=\"Map-of-Participating-Retailers-Pilot-300x204\" width=\"234\" height=\"204\" /></a>\r\n\r\nClick on the image on the right to view the map of participating retailers.\r\n<h3></h3>\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n<h3>For More Information</h3>\r\n<strong>Activist’s Toolkit:</strong> For information on advocating for healthy spaces in your community. <a class=\"more\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-The-Activists-Toolkit.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Learn More</a>\r\n\r\n<strong>In Your Home:</strong> For tips on reducing your contribution to climate change by making smart decisions in your yard. <a class=\"more\" title=\"In Your Home\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/what-you-can-do/in-your-home/\">Learn More</a>\r\n\r\n<a class=\"more\" title=\"View all Resources\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/what-you-can-do/all-resources/\">View all resources</a>','Reducing Climate Impact','','inherit','closed','open','','237-revision-v1','','','2016-03-28 00:02:45','2016-03-28 00:02:45','',237,'http://midwestpesticideaction.org/237-revision-v1/',0,'revision','',0),(3111,2,'2016-03-28 00:03:16','2016-03-28 00:03:16','<h1><a href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/coal-plant-bus524-e1380810665847.jpg\"><img class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-395\" src=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/coal-plant-bus524-e1380810665847.jpg\" alt=\"coal plant bus\" width=\"500\" height=\"290\" /></a></h1>\r\n<h1>Working Toward Environmental Justice</h1>\r\nIt is a statistical fact that most people who live, work, and play in America’s most polluted environments reside in marginalized communities with few resources. These groups inherit deteriorating schools and substandard housing (containing lead paint, asbestos, and mold).  Industrial facilities and polluting infrastructures such as highways located near their neighborhoods lead to higher rates of exposure to toxic pollutants such as lead, arsenic, pesticides, and other poisons in schoolyards, parks and playgrounds.\r\n\r\nAs a result, low-income communities and individuals experience increased exposure to environmental hazards and suffer disproportionately from environmentally related diseases. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services estimated that African-American children are three times more likely than white children to be hospitalized for asthma and asthma-related conditions and are four to six times more likely to die from asthma.\r\n\r\nFrom its inception in 1994, Midwest Pesticide Action Center has been addressed environmental justice issues as they relate to pesticide exposure and the negative impacts on children.\r\n\r\nContinue reading for <a name=\"Success\"></a> for: <a href=\"#Success\">A History of Success</a>, <a href=\"#CC\">Pesticide-Free Childcare Coalition in Illinois</a>\r\n<h2>A History of Success</h2>\r\nMidwest Pesticide Action Center won a U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s 2008 Environmental Justice Achievement Award for our groundbreaking work with childcare facilities. Our work leading up to this award included:\r\n<ul>\r\n	<li>Coalition building with organizations and agencies charged with licensing and inspecting childcare facilities for compliance as well as licensed childcare providers.</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n<ul>\r\n	<li>Free training to caregivers on how to provide safer, more effective pest control while providing a more healthful learning environment.</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n<ul>\r\n	<li>Additional awareness training and policy development for inspectors, licensing agents, and continuing education providers in order to ensure the enforcement of applicable Integrated Pest Management laws.</li>\r\n</ul>\r\nOur efforts have resulted in great success. As of June 2013, 82% of childcare facilities have indicated they comply with state law requiring licensed childcare centers and public schools to implement Integrated Pest Management for least-toxic pest control and to notify parents and staff prior to sprayed or dusted pesticide applications in facilities or on their<a name=\"CC\"></a> grounds.\r\n<h2>Pesticide-Free Childcare Coalition in Illinois</h2>\r\nHowever,  a large number of licensed childcare centers in Illinois violate the law. Additionally, many childcare centers and public schools may be compliant on paper, but remain in clear violation of the law in practice.\r\n\r\nFor example, four students were sent to the hospital last year after their “compliant” school sprayed herbicides in an interior courtyard during school hours.\r\n\r\nTo address these problems, Midwest Pesticide Action Center, with funding from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, established the Pesticide-Free Childcares Coalition that will work to:\r\n<ul>\r\n	<li>Help childcare facilities understand the health risks of pesticide exposure and to find solutions to increase compliance with Illinois Integrated Pest Management law.</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n<ul>\r\n	<li>Target childcare centers in at-risk communities, which serve approximately 7,500 infants and children, to reduce the use of toxic chemicals.<span style=\"font-size: 1.17em;\"> </span><span style=\"font-size: 1.17em;\"> </span></li>\r\n</ul>\r\n<h3>For More Information</h3>\r\n<strong>Resource Guide for Integrated Pest Management in School and Childcares:</strong> For information on implementing an Integrated Pest Management program at your school or childcare facility. <a class=\"more\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-Resource-Guide-for-IPM-in-Schools-and-Childcares.pdf\">Learn More</a>\r\n\r\n<strong>Activist’s Toolkit:</strong> For information on advocating for healthy spaces in your community. <a class=\"more\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-The-Activists-Toolkit.pdf\">Learn More</a>\r\n\r\n<b>Children’s Health</b>: For understanding the risks pesticides pose to children’s health. <a class=\"more\" title=\"Children’s Health\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/the-problem/childrens-health/\">Learn More</a>\r\n\r\n<strong>In Your Community:</strong> For tips on how to make positive change in your community. <a class=\"more\" title=\"In Your Community\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/what-you-can-do/in-your-community/\">Learn More</a>\r\n\r\n<a class=\"more\" title=\"View all Resources\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/what-you-can-do/all-resources/\">View all resources</a>\r\n\r\n<em>Photo courtesy of Paul Dailing</em>','Working Toward Environmental Justice','','inherit','closed','open','','225-revision-v1','','','2016-03-28 00:03:16','2016-03-28 00:03:16','',225,'http://midwestpesticideaction.org/225-revision-v1/',0,'revision','',0),(3112,2,'2016-03-28 00:03:45','2016-03-28 00:03:45','<img class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-186\" src=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/KeepingKidsHealthy-Feature.jpg\" alt=\"KeepingKidsHealthy-Feature\" width=\"500\" height=\"290\" />\r\n<h1>Keeping Kids Healthy</h1>\r\nChildren are especially vulnerable to the harmful effects of pesticides. Midwest Pesticide Action Center works with building managers, schools, childcares, and parks to protect children from exposure to pesticides where they live, learn, and play.\r\n\r\nContinue reading<a name=\"Live\"></a> for: <a href=\"#Live\">Where They Live</a>, <a href=\"#Learn\">Where They Learn</a>, <a href=\"#Play\">Where They Play</a>\r\n<h2>Where They Live</h2>\r\nCultivating a healthy home is essential to protecting children’s health. Midwest Pesticide Action Center provides thousands of families with easy to use<a title=\"View all Resources\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/what-you-can-do/all-resources/\"> information</a> and guidance on how to manage pest problems in the home in the safest and most effective ways.\r\n<ul>\r\n	<li>We translated many of our documents into Spanish, Polish, French, and Mandarin—the most commonly spoken languages other than English in the Midwest.</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n<ul>\r\n	<li>The information and resources provided help protect children from being unnecessarily exposed to the toxins in pesticides linked to health problems like asthma, leukemia, and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder.</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n<ul>\r\n	<li>In collaboration with the Respiratory Health Association, we trained hundreds of asthma education professionals on the risks pests and pesticides pose to children in order to improve the health outcomes of those with asthma.</li>\r\n</ul>\r\nVisit<a name=\"Learn\"></a> our <a title=\"Managing Healthy Homes\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/what-we-do/managing-healthy-homes/\">Managing Healthy Homes</a> page to see what we do to educate families on safe, effective pest control.\r\n<h2>Where They Learn</h2>\r\n<h3>Affecting Policy and Policymakers</h3>\r\nMidwest Pesticide Action Center made it a priority to work with policy makers and school administrators to make the indoor and outdoor environments of these facilities as safe as possible by eliminating the use of toxic chemicals. Our successes include:\r\n<ul>\r\n	<li>Developing the training video “Integrated Pest Management in Illinois Schools: A Better Method” to inform the school and childcare community about the new laws, which is now free and available to everyone on YouTube.</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n<iframe src=\"//www.youtube.com/embed/_Fal0PepQOQ\" width=\"500\" height=\"375\" frameborder=\"0\" allowfullscreen=\"allowfullscreen\"></iframe>\r\n<ul>\r\n	<li>Working to amend the Structural Pest Control Act in Illinois to require schools and childcare facilities to adopt an Integrated Pest Management program for pest control.</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n<ul>\r\n	<li>Amending the Lawn Care Products Application and Notice Act that requires schools and childcare facilities to notify parents before applying pesticides and other lawn care treatments.</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n<ul>\r\n	<li>Educating parents on their right to know when pesticides are applied to their children’s school and childcare facilities.</li>\r\n</ul>\r\nLearn more about these laws that relate to schools and childcare facilities on our <a title=\"Advancing Toxic-Free Policies\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/what-we-do/advancing-toxic-free-policies/\">Policy page</a>.\r\n<h3>Assisting Schools and Childcare Facilities</h3>\r\nOur children spend a considerable amount of their days at schools and childcare facilities; some spend more than 60 hours a week in these facilities. Midwest Pesticide Action Center works to protect our children in these environments.  The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency recognized our school programs in 2008 with the Environmental Justice Achievement Award. Our success includes:\r\n<ul>\r\n	<li>Helping the third-largest school district in the nation, Chicago Public Schools, to adopt Integrated Pest Management as a district-wide policy by:</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n<ul>\r\n<ul>\r\n	<li>Developing the criteria for contracting with pest control providers qualified to conduct Integrated Pest Management activities;</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n</ul>\r\n<ul>\r\n<ul>\r\n	<li>Training more than 1,000 building engineers, custodial, and food service staff in Integrated Pest Management;</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n</ul>\r\n<ul>\r\n<ul>\r\n	<li>Reducing the reliance on pesticide applications for pest control in 681 schools, servicing 401,000 students.</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n</ul>\r\n<ul>\r\n	<li>Engaging and educating the childcares community in activities designed to reduce pesticide exposure for our children by:</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n<ul>\r\n<ul>\r\n	<li>Amending the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services’ Licensing Standards for Day Care Centers to reflect new state Integrated Pest Management laws, including the notification requirement;</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n</ul>\r\n<ul>\r\n<ul>\r\n	<li>Providing workshops for day care inspectors on an Integrated Pest Management requirements for licensure;</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n</ul>\r\n<ul>\r\n<ul>\r\n	<li>Developing continuing education resources for childcare staff and management reaching more than 2,500 individuals and 650 childcare centers and homes resulting  in reduced pesticide exposure for more than 45,000 young children in Illinois.</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n</ul>\r\n<ul>\r\n<ul>\r\n	<li>Establishing the Pesticide-Free Childcares Coalition to work in low-income and minority communities to help childcare facilities comply with Illinois state laws. Learn more on our <a title=\"Working Toward Environmental Justice\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/what-we-do/working-toward-environmental-justice/\" target=\"_blank\">Environmental Justice Page</a>.</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n</ul>\r\n<ul>\r\n	<li>Assisting other schools and childcare facilities in adopting an Integrated Pest Management program with the use of our Resource Guide for Integrated Pest Management in Schools and Childcares.</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n<ul>\r\n<ul>\r\n	<li>More than 1,000 school and childcare personnel representing 200+ school districts and 388 childcare facilities across Illinois received technical assistance and training on use of the guide.</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n</ul>\r\n<ul>\r\n	<li>Helping to develop the Chicago Asthma Consortium, School Task Force’s “Asthma Friendly School Award.”</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n<ul>\r\n<ul>\r\n	<li>This award recognizes schools that promote a healthful environment for all students. The award requires schools to maintain an integrated pest-management plan to receive recognition. Since 2010, 30 schools received the award.</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n</ul>\r\nIf your facility would like to adopt a program with specialized training from Midwest Pesticide Action Center, email Executive Director Ruth<a name=\"Play\"></a> Kerzee at <a href=\"mailto:rkerzee@pesticideaction.org\">rkerzee@pesticideaction.org</a>.\r\n<h2>Where They Play</h2>\r\nMidwest Pesticide Action Center cultivates public parks, school grounds, and backyards that provide healthy spaces for children. Our multiple sustainable landscape and water quality campaigns and toolkits encourage limited use of lawn pesticides and synthetic fertilizers that compromise water quality, contribute to greenhouse gas emissions, and our overall exposure to toxic chemicals.\r\n<ul>\r\n	<li><a title=\"Chicago Grown Green\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-Chicago-Grows-Green-Guide.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Grows Green</a></li>\r\n	<li><a title=\"Maintaining Healthy Parks\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/what-we-do/maintaining-healthy-parks/\" target=\"_blank\">Maintaining Healthy Parks</a></li>\r\n	<li><a title=\"Preserving Water Quality\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/what-we-do/preserving-water-quality/\" target=\"_blank\">Preserving Water Quality</a></li>\r\n	<li><a title=\"Activist\'s Toolkit\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-The-Activists-Toolkit.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Activist’s Toolkit</a></li>\r\n</ul>\r\n<h3>For More Information</h3>\r\n<strong>Resource Guide for Schools and Childcares</strong>: For information on implementing an Integrated Pest Management Program in your school or childcare. <a class=\"more\" title=\"Resource Guide\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-Resource-Guide-for-IPM-in-Schools-and-Childcares.pdf\">Learn More</a>\r\n\r\n<strong>Activist\'s Toolkit</strong>: For information on advocating for healthy spaces in your community. <a class=\"more\" title=\"Activist\'s Toolkit\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-The-Activists-Toolkit.pdf\">Learn More</a>\r\n\r\n<strong>Video</strong>: Integrated Pest Management in Illinois Schools: A Better Method. <a class=\"more\" title=\"IPM in Illinois Schools: A Better Method\" href=\"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_Fal0PepQOQ\" target=\"_blank\">Learn More</a>\r\n\r\n<a class=\"more\" title=\"View all Resources\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/what-you-can-do/all-resources/\">View all resources</a>','Keeping Kids Healthy','','inherit','closed','open','','24-revision-v1','','','2016-03-28 00:03:45','2016-03-28 00:03:45','',24,'http://midwestpesticideaction.org/24-revision-v1/',0,'revision','',0),(3113,2,'2016-03-28 00:04:04','2016-03-28 00:04:04','<img class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-206\" src=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/HealthyParks-Feature.jpg\" alt=\"HealthyParks-Feature\" width=\"500\" height=\"290\" />\r\n<h1>Maintaining Healthy Parks</h1>\r\nAs green refuges in urban landscapes, parks provide necessary places for children to play, athletic facilities for sports teams, spaces for bicyclists and runners, and gathering places for families. Parks should provide safe, healthy places; however, many parks use pesticides on playgrounds and sports fields, along fence lines, and even to create grass-free zones around trees.\r\n\r\nMidwest Pesticide Action Center works to ensure safe and healthy parks for everyone. We engage with communities and park districts across the Midwest to reduce pesticide use and models in demonstrating how to manage green spaces in a healthy way for both people and the environment.\r\n\r\nContinue reading for <a name=\"Healthy\"></a> for: <a href=\"#Healthy\">A Healthy Park is a Natural Park</a>\r\n<h2>A Healthy Park is a Natural Park<span class=\"mceMediaCredit\"><span id=\"4\" class=\"media-credit-mce alignnone\" style=\"width: 255px;\"><span class=\"media-credit-dd\">\r\n</span></span></span></h2>\r\n<a href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/MPAC-Healthy-Parks-Campaign-1.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-725 alignright\" src=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/MPAC-Healthy-Parks-Campaign-1-245x300.jpg\" alt=\"Healthy Parks Campaign Chicago\" width=\"245\" height=\"300\" /></a>Midwest Pesticide Action Center created the <i>A Healthy Park is a Natural Park</i> campaign, an outreach initiative designed to help communities adopt sustainable landscape maintenance practices that do not rely on the use of toxic chemicals.\r\n\r\nThe campaign helps address aesthetic concerns by emphasizing that the presence of dandelions in a park does not mean neglect, but a healthier park and safer place to play.\r\n<ul>\r\n	<li>The first <i>A Healthy Park is a Natural Park</i> campaign launched in Chicago during the spring of 2009 through a partnership with the largest municipal park manager in the country, the Chicago Park District.</li>\r\n	<li>The Chicago Park District refined their landscape-maintenance practices to prevent the use of chemicals in 90 percent of Chicago’s 570 parks, raise awareness about the dangers of pesticide use in public spaces, increase the demand from residents for sustainably maintained parks, and save money.</li>\r\n	<li>Over the last four years, the campaign prevented the use of 66,125 pounds of pesticide-active ingredients.</li>\r\n	<li>By not spraying weed killer, the City saves $1.4 million per application.</li>\r\n	<li>The campaign helped reduce community complaints about dandelions by 90 percent.</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n<blockquote>“The Park District strives to keep our Chicago parks a healthy place for everyone to enjoy. We are encouraging all Chicago residents to follow the Park District’s example and use more natural lawn care techniques that keeps your lawn safe and healthy.\"\r\n\r\n- Mike Kelly, Superintendent and CEO, Chicago Park District</blockquote>\r\nIn spring of 2012, the campaign expanded when Boulder, Colorado, adopted it to eliminate the use of synthetic chemicals on park property. In the last two years, the ongoing campaign, renamed as <i>Healthy Parks = Healthy People</i> continues to grow. View a video released in 2013 by the City of Boulder for details on the program, and <a title=\"Boulder\" href=\"https://www-static.bouldercolorado.gov/docs/HealthyParks-1-201307051347.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">download Boulder\'s Healthy Park Flier</a>.\r\n\r\n<iframe class=\"aligncenter\" src=\"//www.youtube.com/embed/7vCjbthgZsk?rel=0\" width=\"420\" height=\"315\" frameborder=\"0\" allowfullscreen=\"allowfullscreen\"></iframe>\r\n<blockquote>“We all really love this idea for addressing complaints about dandelions. You can take your child to the park and let your baby crawl around on the grass and let your dog roll around on the grass and know that they are not going to be exposed to synthetic pesticides which studies have now shown are linked to cancer in children and dogs.”\r\n\r\n- Rella Abernathy, Integrated Pest Management Coordinator, Community Planning &amp; Sustainability, City of Boulder</blockquote>\r\n<h3>For More Information</h3>\r\n<b>Contact:</b> If interested in introducing the <em>A Natural Park is a Healthy Park</em> campaign to your community, contact us at <a class=\"more\" href=\"mailto:general@pesticideaction.org\">general@pesticideaction.org</a>\r\n\r\n<b>Activist\'s Toolkit</b>: For information on advocating for healthy spaces in your community. <a class=\"more\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-The-Activists-Toolkit.pdf\">Learn More</a>\r\n\r\n<b>Midwest Grows Green</b>: For information on reducing the climate impacts associated with lawn and garden care. <a href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/WOY_Midwest_Grows_Green_Guide-final.pdf\">Learn More</a>\r\n\r\n<strong>What You Can Do:</strong> For tips on what you can do to promote healthy spaces in your community and home. <a class=\"more\" title=\"What You Can Do\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/what-you-can-do/\">Learn More</a>\r\n\r\n<a class=\"more\" title=\"View all Resources\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/what-you-can-do/all-resources/\">View all resources</a>','Maintaining Healthy Parks','','inherit','closed','open','','26-revision-v1','','','2016-03-28 00:04:04','2016-03-28 00:04:04','',26,'http://midwestpesticideaction.org/26-revision-v1/',0,'revision','',0),(3114,2,'2016-03-28 00:04:53','2016-03-28 00:04:53','<a href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/3184-x-2120-DSC_7272_00201767-e1380814390450.jpg\"><img class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-362\" src=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/3184-x-2120-DSC_7272_00201767-e1380814390450.jpg\" alt=\"Row of Buildings PC\" width=\"500\" height=\"290\" /></a>\r\n<h1>Managing Healthy Homes</h1>\r\nWe spend about 90 percent of our time indoors and much of that time in our homes. Most of us do not realize that pollution occurs more often in indoor environments than outdoor. In fact, Americans spend billions of dollars every year in housing-related healthcare costs such as asthma, lead-based paint poisoning, and allergies.\r\n\r\nA healthy home is dry, clean, ventilated, free from pests and contaminants, well maintained, and safe. Integrated Pest Management yields an effective, safe way to control pests.\r\n\r\nIntegrated Pest Management acts as an effective, common-sense approach to pest control that provides information on the habits and traits of pests and how they interact with our environment. This approach encourages a well-maintained home, free of water damage and other structural issues, and the use of the least toxic methods for control of pests to limit the impacts of pesticides on health issues like asthma and cancer.\r\n\r\nSince 2009, Midwest Pesticide Action Center has:\r\n<ul>\r\n	<li>Held 65 housing related training events in IPM</li>\r\n	<li>Trained over 3,000 individuals</li>\r\n	<li>Impacted over 200,000 households</li>\r\n</ul>\r\nContinue reading for <a name=\"Empower\"></a> for: <a href=\"#Empower\">Empowering Residents</a>, <a href=\"#Educate\">Educating Housing Managers</a>, <a href=\"#Green\">Green and Healthy Homes</a>\r\n<h2>Empowering Residents</h2>\r\nMidwest Pesticide Action Center educates residents on reducing the misuse and overuse of pesticides while still effectively controlling pests by advocating for Integrated Pest Management.\r\n\r\nMidwest Pesticide Action Center develops many helpful resources that explain Integrated Pest Management to both renters and homeowners in an understandable way. We deliver this information by:\r\n<ul>\r\n	<li>Talking to residents on a one-on-one basis at housing fairs;</li>\r\n	<li>Organizing informative workshops that are targeted to residents;</li>\r\n	<li>Collaborating with other organizations to inform renters and other residents on their right to healthy living conditions; and</li>\r\n	<li>Providing technical assistance over the phone to hundreds of<a name=\"Educate\"></a> residents</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n<h2>Educating Housing Managers</h2>\r\nWe have trained thousands of landlords and housing managers on safe, cost-effective, pest-control methods.  Low-income residents and public housing are often particularly affected by unhealthy homes.\r\n\r\nIn 1996, Midwest Pesticide Action Center worked with Chicago’s Henry Horner Public Housing Development to launch a landmark IPM program. Highlights of the program include:\r\n<ul>\r\n	<li>Targeted improvements in building maintenance, resident involvement and education on pest-management practices;</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n<ul>\r\n	<li>Regular pest inspection with minimal treatment by an operator with Integrated Pest Management expertise;</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n<ul>\r\n	<li>In the first year, 90 percent of the development’s 500 residents reported satisfaction with the program; and</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n<ul>\r\n	<li>An 83 percent drop in the amount of insecticidal gel bait used on the property.</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n<blockquote>“You folks are unique in so many ways and so very important to landlords, tenants, the City of Chicago and, last but not least, the American way of life.\"\r\n\r\n- Paul Bernstein, Attorney at<a name=\"Green\"></a> Law</blockquote>\r\n<h2>Green and Healthy Homes</h2>\r\nThe <a href=\"http://www.greenandhealthyhomes.org/\">Green and Healthy Homes Initiative</a> is a national partnership of public, private, and philanthropic efforts that delivers a cost-effective and integrated approach to housing interventions through weatherization, energy efficiency, health, and safety. In Chicago, over 20 organizations work together to deliver services and provide education on healthy homes to residents, service providers, building owners, and the community.\r\n\r\nAs a member of the Chicago Green and Healthy Homes Initiative and with the support of the National Center for Healthy Housing and the City of Chicago, Midwest Pesticide Action Center works to support the initiative by offering information and training on Integrated Pest Management to promote best practices for maintaining a healthy home.\r\n\r\nOur Healthy Homes program is supported by the <a title=\"Illinois Department of Public Health\" href=\"http://www.idph.state.il.us/\" target=\"_blank\">Illinois Department of Public Health</a>, <a title=\"Polk Bros. Foundation\" href=\"http://www.polkbrosfdn.org/\" target=\"_blank\">Polk Bros. Foundation</a>, and the <a title=\"City of Chicago Housing and Economic Development\" href=\"http://www.cityofchicago.org/city/en/depts/dcd.html\" target=\"_blank\">City of Chicago</a>.\r\n<h3>For Further Reading</h3>\r\n<b>What You Can Do</b>: For tips on making healthy decisions in your home. <a class=\"more\" title=\"In Your Home\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/what-you-can-do/in-your-home/\">Learn More</a>\r\n\r\n<strong>Ten Steps to Pest Control:</strong> For information on Integrated Pest Management factsheets provides easy tips for a pest-free home. <a class=\"more\" title=\"Ten Steps to Pest Control\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-10-Steps-to-Pest-Control.pdf\">Learn More</a>\r\n\r\n<b>Training</b>: Sign up for upcoming training events happening in the Midwest. <a class=\"more\" title=\"Events\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/mpac-events/\">Learn More</a>\r\n\r\n<a class=\"more\" title=\"View all Resources\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/what-you-can-do/all-resources/\">View all resources</a>\r\n\r\n<em>Photo courtesy of John Booz</em>','Managing Healthy Homes','','inherit','closed','open','','76-revision-v1','','','2016-03-28 00:04:53','2016-03-28 00:04:53','',76,'http://midwestpesticideaction.org/76-revision-v1/',0,'revision','',0),(3115,2,'2016-03-28 00:05:38','2016-03-28 00:05:38','<img class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-781\" src=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/Watering-Flowers-e1384204457770.jpg\" alt=\"Watering Can\" width=\"720\" height=\"319\" />\r\n<h1>What You Can Do</h1>\r\nPesticides are applied where we work, live, and play. Although the problem may seem too large for one person to tackle, you can take action to reduce your exposure to and use of these toxic chemicals. Midwest Pesticide Action Center has developed the resources you need to create healthier spaces in your home, garden, and community. To view a full list of all of our free resources <a class=\"more\" title=\"All Resources\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/what-you-can-do/all-resources/\">click here.</a>\r\n\r\n[one_half]\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/what-you-can-do/in-your-home/\"><img class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-1087\" src=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/11/Neighborhood-Street-small.jpg\" alt=\"Neighborhood Street small\" width=\"230\" height=\"96\" /></a><strong>In Your Home:</strong> Reduce pesticide use at home and grow healthy, resilient yards by choosing safer products for pest control and lawn care. <a class=\"more\" title=\"In Your Home\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/what-you-can-do/in-your-home/\">Learn More </a>\r\n\r\n[/one_half]\r\n\r\n[one_half_last]\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/what-you-can-do/in-your-community/\"><img src=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/iStock_000018320281Medium-Hands-Raised-e1384204811248.jpg\" alt=\"Hands Raised\" width=\"230\" height=\"96\" /></a>\r\n<strong>In Your Community:</strong> Advocate for change in the way pesticides are used in your community. <a class=\"more\" title=\"In Your Community\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/what-you-can-do/in-your-community/\">Learn More </a>\r\n\r\n[/one_half_last]\r\n\r\n[one_half]<strong>Support</strong> Midwest Pesticide Action Center\'s work to create healthier communities. <a class=\"more\" title=\"Support Us\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/what-you-can-do/support-us/\">Learn More</a>\r\n\r\n[/one_half]\r\n\r\n[one_half_last]\r\n\r\n<strong>View All Resources</strong> Find all of our materials to help you reduce your pesticide exposure in your home and community. <a class=\"more\" title=\"All Resources\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/what-you-can-do/all-resources/\">Learn More</a>\r\n\r\n[/one_half_last]','What You Can Do','','inherit','closed','open','','8-revision-v1','','','2016-03-28 00:05:38','2016-03-28 00:05:38','',8,'http://midwestpesticideaction.org/8-revision-v1/',0,'revision','',0),(3116,2,'2016-03-28 00:06:03','2016-03-28 00:06:03','<h1><img class=\"wp-image-247 aligncenter\" src=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/Neighborhood-Street.bmp\" alt=\"Neighborhood Street\" width=\"500\" height=\"608\" /></h1>\r\n<h1>Making Healthy Decisions in Your Home</h1>\r\nYou can limit the pesticide exposure of you, your family, and the environment by making healthy decisions in your yard and home. Pesticides can enter our homes on our shoes and clothes when we walk through chemically treated lawns, when we use chemicals to control pests like ants and cockroaches, and when we purchase certain foods. Reducing exposure to these toxic chemicals begins at home and you can start by following these simple tips. To view a full list of all of our resources <a class=\"more\" title=\"All Resources\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/what-you-can-do/all-resources/\">click here.</a>\r\n\r\nContinue reading for: <a href=\"#Stewardship\">Stewardship Begins in Your Backyard</a>, <a href=\"#IndoorPests\">Control Indoor Pests in a Smart Way</a>, <a href=\"#HirePestControl\">Hiring a Pest Control Provider</a>, <a href=\"#BedBugs\">Beat Back Bed Bugs</a>,<a name=\"Stewardship\"></a> <a href=\"#SmartFood\">Make Smart Food Choices</a>\r\n<h3>Stewardship Begins in Your Backyard</h3>\r\nLawns comprise nearly one-quarter of urban and suburban landscapes. Caring for them responsibly by limiting the amount of water, fertilizers, and pesticides we apply can have a huge impact on our health and environment. For in-depth information, please see our <a class=\"more\" title=\"All Resources\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/what-you-can-do/all-resources/\">resources page</a>.\r\n<ul>\r\n	<li><strong>Start with a soil test. </strong>Test your soil every three to five years to help determine exactly what you need to keep it healthy.</li>\r\n	<li><strong>Fertilize organically.</strong> Switch to an organic fertilizer made from plant or animal materials. These fertilizers allow the grass to absorb nutrients gradually because excess nutrients bind to soil rather than running off into our sewers, lakes, and rivers.</li>\r\n	<li><strong>Diversify your lawn.</strong> Turf grass requires lots of maintenance because it is not native to our region. Plant other ground cover, bushes, and trees  more suitable for our climate and light conditions.</li>\r\n	<li><strong>Water properly.</strong> Water deeply and infrequently early in the morning to minimize evaporation and safeguard against fungus. Ideally, you want one inch of water delivered once a week.</li>\r\n	<li><strong>Mow correctly.</strong> Mow your lawn to at least three inches high. Correct mowing will increase the strength of the root system and naturally shade out weeds.</li>\r\n	<li><strong>Banish weeds naturally.</strong> All of these proper lawn care tips will help banish weeds naturally. Other products such as corn meal gluten applied in early spring can also help.</li>\r\n	<li><strong>Hire a natural lawn care provider.</strong> Midwest Pesticide Action Center works with landscape contractors across the Midwest to provide training and<a name=\"IndoorPests\"></a> resources.</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n<h3>Control Indoor Pests in a Smart Way</h3>\r\nOver the years, many Americans have relied on synthetic pesticides to control pests. Integrated Pest Management is a smarter, safer way to deal with pests. By blocking a pest’s access to food, water, and shelter, you will have fewer pests in your home and need fewer pesticides. For in-depth information, please see our <a class=\"more\" title=\"All Resources\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/what-you-can-do/all-resources/\">resources page</a>.\r\n<ul>\r\n	<li><strong>Keep pests out.</strong> Caulk, cement, or otherwise seal cracks and holes on the outside of your home, install door sweeps and avoid propping doors open. Make sure window screens are free of tears.</li>\r\n	<li><strong>Remove access </strong>to food and water. Practice good sanitation, especially in areas where food is cooked, stored, or eaten. Clean behind appliances often, and seal food in pest-proof containers. Make sure all garbage cans have tight-fitting lids. Repair leaky pipes and remove standing water. Keep drains clean and unclogged.</li>\r\n	<li><strong>Reduce shelter.</strong> Get rid of clutter. A messy room provides many hiding places for pests. Seal holes in the walls including intentional ones for plumbing or electrical cords.  Seal gaps along baseboards or backsplashes around sinks. Use open shelving that is easy to clean under.</li>\r\n	<li><strong>Routinely monitor</strong> for pests so you can you spot a problem early. Place sticky traps in the pest prone areas of kitchens, bathrooms, pantries, closets, or problem areas and check them often.</li>\r\n	<li><strong>Treat </strong>existing problems. Stop routine pesticide spraying. Only use pesticides after completing the above items. Choose least-toxic approaches first, like traps and bait stations, over sprayed or dusted pesticides.</li>\r\n	<li><strong>Hire</strong> a qualified pest control operator. You may need more than these recommendations. A qualified pest control operator can be a great asset in controlling pests safely and <a name=\"HirePestControl\"></a> effectively.</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n<h3>Hiring a Pest Control Provider</h3>\r\nIf you have consistent pest problems, or manage a multi-unit building, we recommend you contract with a licensed pest control provider. They can help identify problem areas in your home and coordinate a monitoring and treatment plan that utilizes the practices of Integrated Pest Management. Midwest Pesticide Action Center has developed the following factsheet to help you make an informed decision when selecting a pest control operator. <a name=\"BedBugs\"></a> <em><a href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-How-Do-I-Know-Im-Receiving-IPM-Factsheet.pdf\"> How Do I Know I\'m Receiving Integrated Pest Management?</a></em>\r\n<h3>Beat Back Bed Bugs</h3>\r\nBed bugs are one of the most persistent problems to plague our homes. Bed bugs are small, flat insects that feed on us as food. Spotting bed bugs early is the key to preventing their spread. Below are some practices to help catch a bed bug problem early. The smaller the infestation, the easier to control. For in-depth information, please see our <a class=\"more\" title=\"All Resources\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/what-you-can-do/all-resources/\">resources page</a>.\r\n<ul>\r\n	<li><strong>Be on the lookout</strong> for signs of infestations especially around sleeping areas. Signs include: live bugs, dark brown or black spots on bedding, carpets, walls and furniture.</li>\r\n	<li><strong>Launder</strong> bedding often. A hot clothes dryer will kill bed bugs in all stages of development. Use it for pillows, stuffed animals, and even “dry clean only” items.</li>\r\n	<li><strong>Paint and caulk</strong> around sleeping areas such as baseboards, windows, and bed frames to seal hiding spots.</li>\r\n	<li><strong>Inspect used furniture</strong> or other items closely before bringing them into your home. Look for signs of infestations in cushions, zippers, seams, and underneath including springs and frames.</li>\r\n	<li><strong>Take extra care when traveling</strong> or staying in a new place. Bed bugs can hitch a ride home on your clothing or luggage.</li>\r\n	<li><strong>Hire a professional</strong> if you think you have an infestation. These pests are tenacious and are best left to<a name=\"SmartFood\"></a> the professionals</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n<h3>Make Smart Food Choices</h3>\r\nMuch of our pesticide exposure comes from the food we eat. Conventionally grown produce is treated with insecticides, herbicides, fungicides, and other pesticides. These pesticides can accumulate up the food chain into foods we eat like milk, butter and meat. They also negatively affect the honeybee and other pollinator populations.\r\n<ul>\r\n	<li><strong>Buy organic</strong> produce when possible.</li>\r\n	<li><strong>Thoroughly wash and peel</strong> conventionally grown produce before cooking or eating it to remove any pesticides that may be on its surface.</li>\r\n	<li><strong>Trim</strong> fat and skin off conventionally fed meat and poultry to reduce your consumption of pesticides that accumulate in animal fat.</li>\r\n	<li><strong>Be especially mindful</strong> of what you feed children. Pound for pound, they eat more food and drink more water than adults. Their bodies are still developing and are especially vulnerable to the effects of pesticide exposure.</li>\r\n	<li><strong>Consult</strong> the Environmental Working Group’s “<a title=\"Shopper\'s Guide to Pesticides in Produce\" href=\"http://www.ewg.org/foodnews/\" target=\"_blank\">Shopper’s Guide to Pesticides in Produce</a>” to help you make the best food choices for limiting the ingestion of pesticides.</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n<h3>Resources</h3>\r\nMidwest Pesticide Action Center has developed a number of resources to help you make smart decisions about controlling pests at home, including resources just for renters, building managers, and homeowners on our resources page. <a class=\"more\" title=\"View all Resources\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/what-you-can-do/all-resources/\">Learn More</a>\r\n\r\n<em>Photo courtesy of Biodiversity Project</em>','In Your Home','','inherit','closed','open','','135-revision-v1','','','2016-03-28 00:06:03','2016-03-28 00:06:03','',135,'http://midwestpesticideaction.org/135-revision-v1/',0,'revision','',0),(3117,2,'2016-03-28 00:06:34','2016-03-28 00:06:34','<h2>Resources</h2>\r\nMidwest Pesticide Action Center has developed a number of toolkits, guides, and factsheets to help you reduce your exposure to pesticides. Our information empowers renters, homeowners, managers, parents, and decision-makers to make smart decisions that lead to healthier communities.\r\n\r\nContinue reading<a name=\"Features\"></a> for: <a href=\"#Features\">Feature Publications</a>, <a href=\"#Home\">In Your Home</a>, <a href=\"#Community\">In Your Community</a>\r\n\r\n<hr />\r\n\r\n<h3>Feature Publications</h3>\r\n[one_half]\r\n<strong>Activist’s Toolkit: </strong>The basics of natural lawn care, health benefits of switching to natural lawn care, and practical tools and example documents to use during a campaign.\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-The-Activists-Toolkit.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">The Activists Toolkit</a>\r\n\r\n<strong>Municipal Pesticide Reduction Toolkit:</strong> Information about pesticide reduction as a sustainable cost effective choice for municipal operations.\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/Final-Toolkit-4-21-2014-NY.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Municipal Pesticide Reduction Toolkit</a>\r\n\r\n<strong>Midwest Grows Green: A Guide to Growing an Environmentally-Friendly Lawn &amp; Garden: </strong>Reduce your contribution to climate change, help your lawn and garden adapt to a changing environment, and produce beautiful outdoor spaces.\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/WOY_Midwest_Grows_Green_Guide-final.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Midwest Grows Green Guide</a>\r\n[/one_half]\r\n\r\n[one_half_last]\r\n<strong>Human Health and Pesticides: Glyphosate and 2,4-D:</strong> This white paper discusses the common active ingredients in lawn pesticides of Glyphosate and 2,4-D and their human health impacts.\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/12/MPAC_WhitePaper-final-12.11.15.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Human Health and Pesticides White Paper</a>\r\n\r\n<strong>Resource Guide for Integrated Pest Management in Schools/Childcares:</strong> The materials your school needs to put an IPM program in place, including sample policies, forms and protocol.\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-Resource-Guide-for-IPM-in-Schools-and-Childcares.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Resource Guide for IPM in Schools and Childcares</a>\r\n\r\n<strong>Battling Bed Bugs in Chicago: </strong>View our bed bug policy, which demonstrates the necessity of taking action on this issue.\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/WIH_MPAC-Battling-Bed-Bugs-2015.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Battling Bed Bugs in Chicago: Making the Case for a Comprehensive Plan</a>\r\n[/one_half_last]\r\n<a name=\"Home\"></a>\r\n\r\n<hr />\r\n\r\nThe following publications are also available for download. Some publications offer downloads in multiple languages. <span class=\"orange\">Click or tap a title to start download.</span>\r\n<h3>In Your Home</h3>\r\n<h4>Indoors</h4>\r\n[one_half]\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/02/Bed-Bug-Ordinance-Essentials.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Bed Bug Ordinance Essentials\r\n</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/MPAC-BedBugOrdTen_FS_English.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Bed Bug Ordinance for Tenants English</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/MPAC-BedBugOrdTen_FS_French.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">French</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/MPAC-BedBugOrdTen_FS_Arabic1.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Arabic</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/MPAC-BedBugOrdTen_FS_Burmese.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Burmese</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/02/Bed-Bug-Ordinance-Essentials.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">\r\n</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-Chicago-Tenants-Rights-and-Responsibilities-English.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Chicago Tenants Rights and Responsibilities English</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-Chicago-Tenants-Rights-and-Responsibilities-Spanish.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Spanish</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/02/Bed-Bug-Ordinance-Essentials.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">\r\n</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-Bed-Bug-Checklist-for-Tenants-English.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Bed Bug Checklist for Tenants English</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-Bed-Bug-Checklist-for-Tenants-Spanish1.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Spanish</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-Bed-Bugs-Tenants-Checklist-Chinese.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Chinese</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-Bed-Bug-Checklist-for-Tenants-Polish.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Polish</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-Bed-Bug-Checklist-for-Tenants-French.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">French</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/02/Bed-Bug-Ordinance-Essentials.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">\r\n</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-How-Do-I-Know-Im-Receiving-IPM-Factsheet.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">How Do I Know I\'m Receiving IPM Factsheet</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/02/Bed-Bug-Ordinance-Essentials.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">\r\n</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/WI_MPAC-10-Steps-to-Pest-Control.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">10 Steps to Pest Control English</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-10-Steps-to-Pest-Control-Spanish.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Spanish</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/02/Bed-Bug-Ordinance-Essentials.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">\r\n</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/10/WI_MPAC-Pest-Control-Companies-That-Provide-IPM.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Pest Control Companies That Provide IPM</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/02/Bed-Bug-Ordinance-Essentials.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">\r\n</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-Ants.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Ants</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/02/Bed-Bug-Ordinance-Essentials.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">\r\n</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-Cockroaches.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Cockroaches</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/02/Bed-Bug-Ordinance-Essentials.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">\r\n</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-Mice-Factsheet.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Mice</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/02/Bed-Bug-Ordinance-Essentials.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">\r\n</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-Asthma-Pests-and-Pesticides.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Asthma, Pests, and Pesticides</a>\r\n<h4>Outdoors</h4>\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-Products-for-Your-Natural-Lawn1.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Products for Your Natural Lawn</a>\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-NLC-Calendar.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Natural Lawn Care Calendar</a>\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/Read-Your-Weeds.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Read Your Weeds</a>\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-Mosquito-Misters-What-You-Need-to-Know.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Mosquito Misters: What You Need to Know</a>\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/Complete-Mosquito-Factsheet-Update.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Mosquitos and West Nile Virus</a>\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/MPAC-Pets-and-Pesticides-TU.pdf\" target=\"blank\">Pets and Pesticides</a>\r\n[/one_half]\r\n\r\n[one_half_last]\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-The-Truth-About-Head-Lice.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">The Truth About Head Lice</a>\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-Reasonable-Accomodations-for-Renters.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Reasonable Accommodations for Renters with Pest Problems</a>\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-Bed-Bugs-English.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Bed Bugs English</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-Bed-Bugs-Spanish.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Spanish</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-Bed-Bugs-Chinese.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Chinese</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-Bed-Bugs-Polish.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Polish</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-Bed-Bugs-French.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">French</a>\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/01/MPAC-BITE-Back-newsletters-vol.1-4.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">B.I.T.E. Back! Newsletter vol. 1-4</a>\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/01/MPAC-BITE-Back-newsletters-vol.5-8.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">B.I.T.E. BACK! Newsletter vol. 5-8</a>\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/01/B.I.T.E.-BACK-NEWSLETTERS-VOL.9-11.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">B.I.T.E. BACK! Newsletter vol. 9-11</a>\r\n<a class=\"download\" title=\"B.I.T.E. Back! Volume 12\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/BiteBack_Fall13.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">B.I.T.E. Back! Newsletter vol. 12</a>\r\n<a class=\"download\" title=\"B.I.T.E. Back! Newsletter vol. 13\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/BiteBack_Spring14.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">B.I.T.E. Back! Newsletter vol. 13\r\n</a><a class=\"download\" title=\"B.I.T.E. Back! Newsletter vol. 13\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/BiteBack_vol14.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">B.I.T.E. Back! Newsletter vol.14</a>\r\n<a class=\"download\" title=\"B.I.T.E. Back! Newsletter vol. 15\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/WIH_MPAC-BITE-Back-newsletters-Vol.-15.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">B.I.T.E. Back! Newsletter vol.15</a>\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-Bedbugs-Poster-English.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">B.I.T.E. Back! Bed Bug Poster English</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/MPAC-Bedbugs-Poster-Spanish.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Spanish</a>\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-Bed-Bug-Checklist-for-Landlords-English.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Bed Bug Checklist for Landlords English</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-Bed-Bug-Checklist-for-Landlords-Spanish.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Spanish</a>\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/How-to-Hire-a-PCO-For-BB.pdf\" target=\"blank\">How to Hire a Pest Control Operator For Bed Bugs</a>\r\n\r\n<a class=\"download\" style=\"line-height: 1.5em;\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/MPAC-Natural-Lawn-Care-for-Homeowners.pdf\">Natural Lawn Care for Homeowners</a>\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-Bee-Friendly-Garden.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">A Bee-Friendly Garden is a Pesticide-Free Garden</a>\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/MWGG_Brochure_final.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Midwest Grows Green Brochure</a>\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-Talking-to-Your-Neighbors-About-Pesticides1.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Talking to Your Neighbors About Pesticides</a>\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-Pesticide-Free-Zone-Sign-Factsheet.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Pesticide Free Zone Sign</a>\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/WOY_MPAC-Pesticide-Free-Zone-Sign-order-form-color.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Pesticide Free Zone Sign Order Form</a>\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/02/WOY_MPAC-Midwest-Natural-Lawn-Care-Companies3.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Midwest Natural Lawn Care Companies</a> <a name=\"Community\"></a>\r\n[/one_half_last]\r\n\r\n<hr />\r\n\r\n<h3>In Your Community</h3>\r\n[one_half]\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-The-Activists-Toolkit.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">The Activist\'s Toolkit</a>\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/Final-Toolkit-4-21-2014-NY.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Municipal Pesticide Reduction Toolkit</a>\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-Resource-Guide-for-IPM-in-Schools-and-Childcares.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Resource Guide for IPM in Schools and Childcares</a><strong>\r\n</strong><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-Healthy-Parks-Campaign.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Healthy Parks Campaign</a>\r\n[/one_half]\r\n\r\n[one_half_last]\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/ParentsRight-to-Know-NotificationGuidelines.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Parents\' Right to Know Notification Guidelines English</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/ParentsRight-to-Know-NotificationGuidelines-Spanish.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Spanish</a>\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/MPAC-Reducing-Pesticides-in-Schools-a-Parents-Guide.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Reducing Pesticides in Schools: A Parent\'s Guide</a>\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/MPAC-Bed-Bugs-in-Schools-and-Childcares.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Bed Bugs in Schools and Childcares\r\n</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/WOY_MPAC-Pesticide-Disposal-The-Right-Way.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Pesticide Disposal the Right Way</a>\r\n\r\n[/one_half_last]','Resources','','inherit','closed','open','','119-revision-v1','','','2016-03-28 00:06:34','2016-03-28 00:06:34','',119,'http://midwestpesticideaction.org/119-revision-v1/',0,'revision','',0),(3118,2,'2016-03-28 00:06:57','2016-03-28 00:06:57','<h1><img class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-904\" src=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/Feet_Legs_Grass-e1384289475330.jpg\" alt=\"Kids Legs in Grass\" width=\"500\" height=\"332\" /></h1>\r\n<h1>Support Us</h1>\r\n<a title=\"Donate to Midwest Pesticide Action Center\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/donate/\"><b>Donate now</b></a> to support Midwest Pesticide Action Center! Your contribution helps us to:\r\n<ul>\r\n	<li>Minimize pesticide use in schools, childcares, yards, and parks;</li>\r\n	<li>Decrease runoff of/exposure to toxic lawn and garden chemicals;</li>\r\n	<li>Reduce pesticide exposure and pest problems in low-income communities;</li>\r\n	<li>Inform people about pesticide risks and the availability of safer alternatives;</li>\r\n	<li>Advance policies that provide greater protections against pesticide exposure.</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><a class=\"button\" title=\"Donate to Midwest Pesticide Action Center\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/donate/\">Donate now</a></p>\r\nContinue reading for: <a href=\"#Sponsor\">Sponsor an Event or Workshop</a>, <a href=\"#Host\">Host a Fundraising Event</a>, <a href=\"#Sign\">Buy a Pesticide-Free Zone Sign</a>, <a href=\"#Mannual\">Buy a Copy of \"The Organic Lawn Care Mannual: A Natural, Low-Maintenace System for a Beautiful, Safe Lawn\"</a>\r\n\r\n<strong>Earn money for Midwest Pesticide Action Center </strong><strong>by simply shopping online.</strong>\r\n\r\n<img class=\"size-full wp-image-894 alignright\" src=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/igive120x60.gif\" alt=\"iGive\" width=\"120\" height=\"60\" />\r\n\r\nTry the<a title=\"iGive\" href=\"http://www.iGive.com/SPCP\" target=\"_blank\"> iGive Button</a> – a tiny addition to your browser that automatically tells stores you want your shopping to support us. Giving is easy, free, and automatic with over 1,300 retailers.\r\n\r\nYou can also support us through your workplace giving and while you buy your favorite products. We are a member of <a title=\"Earthshare Illinois\" href=\"http://www.earthshare-illinois.org/\" target=\"_blank\">Earthshare Illinois</a> and <a name=\"Sponsor\"></a> <a title=\"One Percent for the Planet\" href=\"http://onepercentfortheplanet.org/\" target=\"_blank\">1% for the Planet</a>.\r\n\r\n<b>Sponsor an Event or Workshop</b>. For more information about recognition opportunities, email <a href=\"destewart@pesticideaction.org\">dstewart@pesticideaction.org</a> or call (773) 878-7378<a name=\"Host\"></a> ext.208.\r\n\r\n<b>Host a Fundraising Event. </b>Hosting a fundraiser for Midwest Pesticide Action Center is a great excuse to get your friends and colleagues together! Whether it’s a house party, happy hour, documentary film screening, yard sale, or yoga class, Midwest Pesticide Action Center can help you host a successful event. Contact  <a href=\"destewart@pesticideaction.org\">dstewart@pesticideaction.org</a> to learn<a name=\"Sign\"></a> more!\r\n\r\n<b>Buy a Pesticide-Free Zone sign</b> for $12 and display it in your yard.\r\n<h1><a href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/PFZ-sign.jpg\"><img class=\"alignright\" src=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/PFZ-sign-291x300.jpg\" alt=\"PFZ sign\" width=\"175\" height=\"180\" /></a></h1>\r\nBe a model for your community and show your neighbors that pesticide-free lawns and gardens are important for the health of children, families, pets, the environment and the community. At eight inches (8\") in diameter, these aluminum enameled signs will not rust and will retain their bright colors for years!\r\n\r\nEach sign you purchase comes with our own Natural Lawn Care fact sheets on how to maintain your pesticide-free landscape and spread the word about the benefits of pesticide-free<a name=\"Mannual\"></a> spaces.\r\n\r\n<strong>Buy a copy of \"The Organic Lawn Care Manual: A Natural, Low-Maintenance System for a Beautiful, Safe Lawn\"</strong>\r\n\r\n<img class=\" wp-image-896 alignright\" title=\"The Organic Lawn Care Manual\" src=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/Tukey-Book-237x300.jpg\" alt=\"The Organic Lawn Care Manual\" width=\"190\" height=\"240\" />\r\n\r\nby Paul Tukey for $15. In this easy-to-read and visually appealing manual, Tukey explains how to evaluate lawn-care needs, how grass grows, how to create healthy soil, and how  to select grass that is drought tolerant and disease resistant.\r\n\r\nThere are chapters on starting a lawn from scratch or refurbishing an existing lawn, making the transition from synthetic fertilizers and pesticides, watering, weeding, dealing with pests and diseases, and mowing and maintenance.\r\n\r\n<strong>Purchase a sign or book (or both for $25!) by calling (773) 878-7378 ext.208.</strong>','Support Us','','inherit','closed','open','','148-revision-v1','','','2016-03-28 00:06:57','2016-03-28 00:06:57','',148,'http://midwestpesticideaction.org/148-revision-v1/',0,'revision','',0),(3119,2,'2016-03-28 00:07:20','2016-03-28 00:07:20','<h3><a href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/iStock_000018320281Medium-Hands-Raised-e1380815404656.jpg\"><img class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-365\" src=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/iStock_000018320281Medium-Hands-Raised-e1380815404656.jpg\" alt=\"Hands Raised\" width=\"499\" height=\"290\" /></a></h3>\r\n<h2>Catalyze Change in Your Community</h2>\r\nYou can catalyze change that will make your community a safer place.  Affecting community-wide policies in schools and parks can have a huge impact on limiting the use of toxic pesticides. Take a look at the steps below to learn how you can help reduce pesticide use in your neighborhoods and public spaces.\r\n\r\nContinue reading for: <a href=\"#Blog\">Connect to Our Blog</a>, <a href=\"#Campaign\">Start a Campaign to Promote Sustainable Lawn and Landscape Care in Your Community</a>, <a href=\"#Engage\">Engage Politically</a>, <a href=\"#SC\">Promote Healthy Schools and Childcares</a>, <a href=\"#Park\">Bring \"A Natural Park is a Healthy Park\" to Your Community</a>, <a name=\"Blog\"></a> <a href=\"#Public\">Ensure Public Buildings and Properties are Healthy Places for the Community</a>\r\n<h3>Connect to Our Blog</h3>\r\nCommunity activists are working across the nation to reduce the health and environmental effects of pesticide use and making a real impact. Stay informed by connecting <a name=\"Campaign\"></a> to <span style=\"font-family: Calibri; font-size: medium;\"><a title=\"Blog\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/blog/\">our blog</a>.</span>\r\n<h3>Start a Campaign to Promote Sustainable Lawn and Landscape Care in Your Community</h3>\r\nWe’ve created the <a href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-The-Activists-Toolkit.pdf\">Activist’s Toolkit</a>, with support from <a title=\"Patagonia Becoming a Responsible Company\" href=\"http://www.patagonia.com/us/patagonia.go?assetid=2329\" target=\"_blank\">Patagonia</a>, an easy-to-use resource to help inspire you, the local activist, to catalyze change in your own community. The guide covers many of the basic tools for building a campaign that can influence decision makers, generate media coverage, and reach out to community members through social media. Help your community minimize the harmful environmental effects of conventional lawncare:\r\n<ul>\r\n	<li>Nationwide, turf grass is estimated to cover over 40 million acres, an area three times larger than the amount dedicated to corn.</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n<ul>\r\n	<li>Conventionally maintained lawns and landscapes use many of our precious resources, as large amounts of synthetic fertilizers, pesticides, and water are necessary for maintenance.</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n<ul>\r\n	<li>These practices degrade local waterways, pollute the air, harm pets and wildlife, contribute to climate change, and threaten human health.</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n<a name=\"Engage\"></a>\r\n<a href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-The-Activists-Toolkit.pdf\"><img class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-93\" src=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/Activists_Toolkit_Webheader.jpg\" alt=\"Activists_Toolkit_Webheader\" width=\"860\" height=\"215\" /></a>\r\n<h3>Engage Politically</h3>\r\nOrganizations and coalitions across the country are working to pass laws and policies to protect us from exposure to pesticides and other toxic chemicals. To learn more about these campaigns and how you can contribute, click the links below.\r\n<ul>\r\n	<li>Midwest Pesticide Action Center works to <a href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/what-we-do/advancing-toxic-free-policies/\">advance toxic-free policies</a> in Chicago and the Midwest.</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n<ul>\r\n	<li>Sign up to receive action alerts from <a href=\"http://action.beyondpesticides.org/signup_page/actionalerts\" target=\"_blank\">Beyond Pesticides</a>.</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n<ul>\r\n	<li>Take action with <a href=\"http://www.panna.org/get-involved/action-center\" target=\"_blank\">Pesticide Action Network of North America</a>.</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n<a name=\"SC\"></a>\r\n<ul>\r\n	<li>Take action with the <a href=\"http://www.ewg.org/take-action\" target=\"_blank\">Environmental Working Group</a>.</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n<h3>Promote Healthy Schools and Childcares</h3>\r\nChildren face higher risks from exposure to pesticides than adults exposed at the same level. It is important to ensure your child’s school or childcare is following best practices and state laws which limit the use of pesticides.\r\n\r\nFor in-depth information, please see our <a class=\"more\" title=\"All Resources\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/what-you-can-do/all-resources/\">resources page</a>.\r\n<ul>\r\n	<li>Midwest Pesticide Action Center has developed a comprehensive guide to help administration in to implement <a href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-Resource-Guide-for-IPM-in-Schools-and-Childcares.pdf\">Integrated Pest Management</a>. Contact us at <a href=\"mailto:general@pesticideaction.org\" target=\"_blank\">general@pesticideaction.org </a>for information on how to use this resource.</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n<ul>\r\n	<li>In Illinois, Integrated Pest Management is required by law in public schools and licensed childcare facilities. Schools must either report an Integrated Pest Management  plan to the Illinois Department of Public Health or send a representative to receive Integrated Pest Management training.</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n<ul>\r\n	<li>As a parent or guardian, you can be notified when pesticides are to be applied on school grounds. School districts can either notify you by adding you to a registry of parents who have signed up for notifications, or provide written notification through correspondence regularly published by the school district.</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n<ul>\r\n	<li>We encourage you to ask your school if they maintain a registry and if they are in compliance with the state law requiring Integrated Pest Management. Visit our<a name=\"Park\"></a> <a title=\"Advancing Toxic-Free Policies\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/what-we-do/advancing-toxic-free-policies/\" target=\"_blank\">policy page</a> to learn more.</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n<h3>Bring \"A Natural Park is a Healthy Park\" to Your Community</h3>\r\n<a href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/MPAC-Healthy-Parks-Campaign-1.jpg\"><img class=\"alignright\" src=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/MPAC-Healthy-Parks-Campaign-1-245x300.jpg\" alt=\"Healthy Parks Campaign Chicago\" width=\"245\" height=\"300\" /></a>\r\n\r\nMidwest Pesticide Action Center launched the “<a href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-Healthy-Parks-Campaign.pdf\">A Natural Park is a Healthy Park</a>” campaign to alter park management practices and to promote sustainably managed parks as a healthy place for children and pets without exposure to toxic chemicals.\r\n<ul>\r\n	<li>If you would like to learn how to incorporate sustainable practices into your parks, feel free to contact us via <a href=\"mailto:general@pesticideaction.org\" target=\"_blank\">general@pesticideaction.org</a>.</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n<ul>\r\n	<li>If your park district already sustainably manages its parks and you would like community members to know about these healthy practices, consider working with Midwest Pesticide Action Center to bring this campaign to your community</li>\r\n</ul>\r\nVisit our<a name=\"Public\"></a> “<a title=\"Maintaining Healthy Parks\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/what-we-do/maintaining-healthy-parks/\">A Natural Park is a Healthy Park</a>” page for more information.\r\n<h3>Ensure Public Buildings and Properties are Healthy Places for the Community.</h3>\r\nMunicipalities play a large role in our lives and the spaces in which we interact, managing large facilities and parks that the public uses every day. As a municipal official, you can use our “<a href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/Final-Toolkit-4-21-2014-NY.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Municipal Pesticide Reduction Toolkit</a>” to make your buildings and property healthy places for the community.\r\n\r\nThe guide provides sample Integrated Pest Management contracts, monitoring plans, and tips for reducing pesticide use in a cost-effective way.\r\n\r\nContact us for a copy today: <a href=\"mailto:general@pesticideaction.org\" target=\"_blank\">general@pesticideaction.org</a>\r\n<h3>Resources</h3>\r\nMidwest Pesticide Action Center has developed a number of resources to help you make real change in your community, including promoting natural landscape care, talking to decision-makers about policy decisions, and encouraging school administration to adopt responsible procedures to protect the health of our children. <a class=\"more\" title=\"View all Resources\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/what-you-can-do/all-resources/\">Learn More</a>','In Your Community','','inherit','closed','open','','97-revision-v1','','','2016-03-28 00:07:20','2016-03-28 00:07:20','',97,'http://midwestpesticideaction.org/97-revision-v1/',0,'revision','',0),(3120,2,'2016-03-29 11:29:20','2016-03-29 11:29:20','<h1><a href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/takethepledge_banner.jpg\"><img class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-3039\" src=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/takethepledge_banner.jpg\" alt=\"takethepledge_banner\" width=\"2084\" height=\"730\" /></a></h1>\r\nMore and more, MPAC receives your concerns about reducing the use of potentially harmful gardening and lawn care chemicals in our lawns, parks, and other public places. We want to turn your concerns into action by creating a community of informed citizens ready to organize and advocate for more natural lawn care practices at home and Midwest-wide.\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/MWGG_Logo.png\"><img class=\"alignright wp-image-2279 size-thumbnail\" src=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/MWGG_Logo-150x150.png\" alt=\"MWGG_Logo\" width=\"150\" height=\"150\" /></a>\r\n\r\nBut we need your help! By taking this Midwest Grows Green (MGG) pledge, you join an online, engaged network of citizen activists prepared to eliminate synthetic chemical use on your own lawn and/or garden and at all locations where children, pets, and wildlife live and play. Will you join us?\r\n\r\nYour commitment today gives you access to natural lawn care resources, advocacy support, and event updates from our monthly newsletter and adds your name to the larger MGG effort as we recruit more\r\npesticide-free parks, point-of-purchase retailers, and pledges.\r\n<h2 class=\"pledge-heading\">I am ready to take the pledge to reduce the use of harmful lawn and garden chemicals!</h2>\r\n<ul>\r\n	<li><i class=\"fa fa-check-square-o  fa-2x\"></i>I pledge to eliminate the use of herbicides such as glyphosate (Round Up), 2,4 D, and/or “weed and feed” products on my lawn and in my garden.</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n<ul>\r\n	<li><i class=\"fa fa-check-square-o  fa-2x\"></i>I pledge to adopt one or more of the following natural lawn care practices:\r\n<ul class=\"pledge-nest\">\r\n	<li>Mow high: I will mow my grass to no less than 3 inches.</li>\r\n	<li>Water Properly: I will water my lawn with no more than 1 inch per week.</li>\r\n	<li>Fertilize organically: I will use only naturally derived organic fertilizers on my lawn and garden such as compost, compost tea, alfalfa meal, etc.</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n<!-- Begin MailChimp Signup Form -->\r\n<div id=\"mc_embed_signup\"><form id=\"mc-embedded-subscribe-form\" class=\"validate\" action=\"//midwestpesticideaction.us7.list-manage.com/subscribe/post?u=1a20e747b9a38f4e966cf07e2&amp;id=c7390a996c\" method=\"post\" name=\"mc-embedded-subscribe-form\" novalidate=\"\" target=\"_blank\">\r\n<div id=\"mc_embed_signup_scroll\">\r\n<h2>Fill out the information below to take the pledge.</h2>\r\n<div class=\"indicates-required\"><span class=\"asterisk\">*</span> indicates required</div>\r\n<div class=\"indicates-required\"></div>\r\n<div class=\"mc-field-group\"><label for=\"mce-EMAIL\">Email Address <span class=\"asterisk\">*</span></label>\r\n<input id=\"mce-EMAIL\" class=\"required email\" name=\"EMAIL\" type=\"email\" value=\"\" /></div>\r\n<div class=\"mc-field-group\"></div>\r\n<div class=\"mc-field-group\"><label for=\"mce-FNAME\">First Name <span class=\"asterisk\">*</span></label>\r\n<input id=\"mce-FNAME\" class=\"required\" name=\"FNAME\" type=\"text\" value=\"\" /></div>\r\n<div class=\"mc-field-group\"></div>\r\n<div class=\"mc-field-group\"><label for=\"mce-LNAME\">Last Name <span class=\"asterisk\">*</span></label>\r\n<input id=\"mce-LNAME\" class=\"required\" name=\"LNAME\" type=\"text\" value=\"\" />\r\n<div class=\"mc-field-group\"></div>\r\n<div class=\"mc-address-group\">\r\n<div class=\"mc-field-group\"><label for=\"mce-SADDRESS-addr1\">Street Address </label>\r\n<input id=\"mce-SADDRESS-addr1\" maxlength=\"70\" name=\"SADDRESS[addr1]\" type=\"text\" value=\"\" /></div>\r\n</div>\r\n<div class=\"mc-field-group\"></div>\r\n<div class=\"mc-field-group\"><label for=\"mce-SADDRESS-addr2\">Address Line 2</label>\r\n<input id=\"mce-SADDRESS-addr2\" maxlength=\"70\" name=\"SADDRESS[addr2]\" type=\"text\" value=\"\" /></div>\r\n<div class=\"mc-field-group\"></div>\r\n<div class=\"mc-field-group size1of2\"><label for=\"mce-SADDRESS-city\">City</label>\r\n<input id=\"mce-SADDRESS-city\" maxlength=\"40\" name=\"SADDRESS[city]\" type=\"text\" value=\"\" /></div>\r\n<div class=\"mc-field-group size1of2\"></div>\r\n<div class=\"mc-field-group size1of2\"><label for=\"mce-SADDRESS-state\">State/Province/Region</label>\r\n<input id=\"mce-SADDRESS-state\" maxlength=\"20\" name=\"SADDRESS[state]\" type=\"text\" value=\"\" /></div>\r\n<div class=\"mc-field-group size1of2\"></div>\r\n</div>\r\n<div class=\"mc-field-group\"><label for=\"mce-ZIP\">Zip Code <span class=\"asterisk\">*</span></label>\r\n<input id=\"mce-ZIP\" class=\"required\" name=\"ZIP\" type=\"text\" value=\"\" /></div>\r\n&nbsp;\r\n<div style=\"position: absolute; left: -5000px;\"><input tabindex=\"-1\" name=\"b_1a20e747b9a38f4e966cf07e2_c7390a996c\" type=\"text\" value=\"\" /></div>\r\n<div class=\"pledge-subscribe-button\">\r\n<div class=\"clear\"><input id=\"mc-embedded-subscribe\" class=\"button\" name=\"subscribe\" type=\"submit\" value=\"Subscribe\" /></div>\r\n</div>\r\n</div>\r\n</form></div>\r\n<script src=\"//s3.amazonaws.com/downloads.mailchimp.com/js/mc-validate.js\"></script><script>// <![CDATA[\r\n(function($) {window.fnames = new Array(); window.ftypes = new Array();fnames[0]=\'EMAIL\';ftypes[0]=\'email\';fnames[1]=\'FNAME\';ftypes[1]=\'text\';fnames[2]=\'LNAME\';ftypes[2]=\'text\';fnames[3]=\'SADDRESS\';ftypes[3]=\'address\';fnames[5]=\'CITY\';ftypes[5]=\'address\';fnames[4]=\'ZIP\';ftypes[4]=\'zip\';}(jQuery));var $mcj = jQuery.noConflict(true);\r\n// ]]></script>\r\n<!--End mc_embed_signup-->\r\n<div class=\"clear\"></div>\r\n<div class=\"clear\"></div>\r\n<div class=\"clear\"></div>\r\n<div class=\"clear\"></div>\r\n<div class=\"clear\"></div>\r\n<div class=\"clear\"></div>\r\n<p class=\"donate-paragraph\"><strong>Donate $10+  below and you\'ll receive a \"Keep ON the Grass\" sign.</strong></p>\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<hr />\r\n\r\n<h2 class=\"pledge-heading\">Donate</h2>\r\n<p class=\"tagline ng-binding ng-scope\" style=\"font-weight: 400; color: #666666;\" data-ng-if=\"vm.campaign.content.tagline\">Our goal is to establish 10 pesticide-free parks, 30 point-of-purchase retailers, and 200 MGG pledges by the end of 2016. We need your support.</p>\r\n<p class=\"tagline ng-binding ng-scope\" style=\"font-weight: 400; color: #666666;\" data-ng-if=\"vm.campaign.content.tagline\"><a href=\" http://midwestpesticideaction.org/midwest-grows-green/community-engagement/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\" http://midwestpesticideaction.org/midwest-grows-green/community-engagement/\"><img class=\"alignright wp-image-2389 size-medium\" src=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/KeepOnGrass_sign_generic1-200x300.jpg\" alt=\"KeepOnGrass_sign_generic\" width=\"200\" height=\"300\" /></a></p>\r\n\r\n<ul class=\"pledge-donate\">\r\n	<li>$10 I want a “Keep ON the Grass” sign!*</li>\r\n	<li><i class=\"fa fa-leaf\"></i>$20 I want a point-of-purchase retailer!</li>\r\n	<li><i class=\"fa fa-leaf\"></i>$30 I want to put on an MGG event!</li>\r\n	<li><i class=\"fa fa-leaf\"></i>$50 I want a Pesticide Free Park!</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n<div class=\"pledge-button\"><a class=\"button\" href=\"https://publicgood.com/org/midwest-pesticide-action-center-nfp-chicago-il-364361525/campaign/help-spread-the-mgg-message\" target=\"_blank\">DONATE</a></div>\r\n<div style=\"color: #222222;\"></div>\r\n<div style=\"color: #222222;\"></div>\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n*Donate $10+ and you\'ll receive a \"Keep ON the Grass\" sign.','Take the Pledge','','inherit','closed','open','','2929-revision-v1','','','2016-03-29 11:29:20','2016-03-29 11:29:20','',2929,'http://midwestpesticideaction.org/2929-revision-v1/',0,'revision','',0),(3121,2,'2018-04-23 18:47:49','2018-04-23 18:47:49','<h1><a href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/takethepledge_banner.jpg\"><img class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-3039\" src=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/takethepledge_banner.jpg\" alt=\"takethepledge_banner\" width=\"2084\" height=\"730\" /></a></h1>\r\nMore and more, MPAC receives your concerns about reducing the use of potentially harmful gardening and lawn care chemicals in our lawns, parks, and other public places. We want to turn your concerns into action by creating a community of informed citizens ready to organize and advocate for more natural lawn care practices at home and Midwest-wide.\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/MWGG_Logo.png\"><img class=\"alignright wp-image-2279 size-thumbnail\" src=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/MWGG_Logo-150x150.png\" alt=\"MWGG_Logo\" width=\"150\" height=\"150\" /></a>\r\n\r\nBy taking this Midwest Grows Green (MGG) pledge, you join an online, engaged network of citizens prepared to eliminate synthetic chemical use on your own lawn and/or garden and at all locations where children, pets, and wildlife live and play. Will you join us?\r\n\r\nYour commitment today gives you access to natural lawn care resources, advocacy support, and event updates from our monthly newsletter and adds your name to this growing effort as MGG recruits more pesticide-free parks, point-of-purchase retailers, and <a href=\"http://bit.ly/MGGplmap\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">pledges</a>.\r\n<h2 class=\"pledge-heading\">I am ready to take the pledge to reduce the use of harmful lawn and garden chemicals!</h2>\r\n<ul>\r\n 	<li><i class=\"fa fa-check-square-o fa-2x\"></i>I pledge to participate in this MGG community and push for synthetic chemical reduction at all places where children, pets, and wildlife live and play.</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n<ul>\r\n 	<li><i class=\"fa fa-check-square-o fa-2x\"></i>I pledge to reduce my use of herbicide products such as glyphosate (Round Up), 2,4 D, and/or “weed and feed”.</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n<ul>\r\n 	<li><i class=\"fa fa-check-square-o fa-2x\"></i>I pledge to adopt one or more of the following natural lawn care practices:\r\n<ul class=\"pledge-nest\">\r\n 	<li>Mow high: I will mow my grass to no less than 3 inches.</li>\r\n 	<li>Water Properly: I will water my lawn with no more than 1 inch per week.</li>\r\n 	<li>Fertilize organically: I will use only naturally derived organic fertilizers on my lawn and garden such as compost, compost tea, alfalfa meal, etc.</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n<!-- Begin MailChimp Signup Form -->\r\n\r\n<style type=\"text/css\">\r\n	#mc_embed_signup{background:#fff; clear:left; font:14px Helvetica,Arial,sans-serif; }<br />\r\n	/* Add your own MailChimp form style overrides in your site stylesheet or in this style block.<br />\r\n	   We recommend moving this block and the preceding CSS link to the HEAD of your HTML file. */<br />\r\n</style>\r\n<div id=\"mc_embed_signup\"><form id=\"mc-embedded-subscribe-form\" class=\"validate\" action=\"https://midwestpesticideaction.us7.list-manage.com/subscribe/post?u=1a20e747b9a38f4e966cf07e2&amp;id=c7390a996c\" method=\"post\" name=\"mc-embedded-subscribe-form\" novalidate=\"\" target=\"_blank\">\r\n<div id=\"mc_embed_signup_scroll\">\r\n<h2>Fill out the form below to take the pledge.</h2>\r\n<div class=\"indicates-required\"><span class=\"asterisk\">*</span> indicates required</div>\r\n<div class=\"mc-field-group\"><label for=\"mce-EMAIL\">Email Address <span class=\"asterisk\">*</span>\r\n</label>\r\n<input id=\"mce-EMAIL\" class=\"required email\" name=\"EMAIL\" type=\"email\" value=\"\" /></div>\r\n<div class=\"mc-field-group\"><label for=\"mce-FNAME\">First Name <span class=\"asterisk\">*</span>\r\n</label>\r\n<input id=\"mce-FNAME\" class=\"required\" name=\"FNAME\" type=\"text\" value=\"\" /></div>\r\n<div class=\"mc-field-group\"><label for=\"mce-LNAME\">Last Name <span class=\"asterisk\">*</span>\r\n</label>\r\n<input id=\"mce-LNAME\" class=\"required\" name=\"LNAME\" type=\"text\" value=\"\" /></div>\r\n<div class=\"mc-field-group\"><label for=\"mce-MMERGE6\">Zip Code <span class=\"asterisk\">*</span>\r\n</label>\r\n<input id=\"mce-MMERGE6\" class=\"required\" name=\"MMERGE6\" type=\"text\" value=\"\" /></div>\r\n<div class=\"mc-field-group\"><label for=\"mce-MMERGE3\">Street Address </label>\r\n<input id=\"mce-MMERGE3\" class=\"\" name=\"MMERGE3\" type=\"text\" value=\"\" /></div>\r\n<div class=\"mc-field-group\"><label for=\"mce-MMERGE4\">City </label>\r\n<input id=\"mce-MMERGE4\" class=\"\" name=\"MMERGE4\" type=\"text\" value=\"\" /></div>\r\n<div class=\"mc-field-group\"><label for=\"mce-MMERGE5\">State </label>\r\n<input id=\"mce-MMERGE5\" class=\"\" name=\"MMERGE5\" type=\"text\" value=\"\" /></div>\r\n<div id=\"mce-responses\" class=\"clear\">\r\n<div id=\"mce-error-response\" class=\"response\" style=\"display: none;\"></div>\r\n<div id=\"mce-success-response\" class=\"response\" style=\"display: none;\"></div>\r\n</div>\r\n<!-- real people should not fill this in and expect good things - do not remove this or risk form bot signups-->\r\n<div style=\"position: absolute; left: -5000px;\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><input tabindex=\"-1\" name=\"b_1a20e747b9a38f4e966cf07e2_c7390a996c\" type=\"text\" value=\"\" /></div>\r\n<div class=\"pledge-subscribe-button\">\r\n<div class=\"clear\"><input id=\"mc-embedded-subscribe\" class=\"button\" name=\"subscribe\" type=\"submit\" value=\"Subscribe\" /></div>\r\n</div>\r\n</div>\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n</form></div>\r\n<p class=\"donate-paragraph\"><strong>Donate $10+  below and you\'ll receive a \"Keep ON the Grass\" sign.</strong></p>\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<hr />\r\n\r\n<h2 class=\"pledge-heading\">Donate</h2>\r\n<p class=\"tagline ng-binding ng-scope\" style=\"font-weight: 400; color: #666666;\" data-ng-if=\"vm.campaign.content.tagline\">Our goal is to establish 10 pesticide-free parks, 30 point-of-purchase retailers, and 200 MGG pledges by the end of 2016. We need your support.</p>\r\n<p class=\"tagline ng-binding ng-scope\" style=\"font-weight: 400; color: #666666;\" data-ng-if=\"vm.campaign.content.tagline\"><a href=\" http://midwestpesticideaction.org/midwest-grows-green/community-engagement/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/midwest-grows-green/community-engagement/ noopener\"><img class=\"alignright wp-image-2389 size-medium\" src=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/KeepOnGrass_sign_generic1-200x300.jpg\" alt=\"KeepOnGrass_sign_generic\" width=\"200\" height=\"300\" /></a></p>\r\n\r\n<ul class=\"pledge-donate\">\r\n 	<li><i class=\"fa fa-leaf\"></i>$10 I want a “Keep ON the Grass” sign!*</li>\r\n 	<li><i class=\"fa fa-leaf\"></i>$20 I want a point-of-purchase retailer!</li>\r\n 	<li><i class=\"fa fa-leaf\"></i>$30 I want to put on an MGG event!</li>\r\n 	<li><i class=\"fa fa-leaf\"></i>$50 I want a Pesticide Free Park!</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n<div class=\"pledge-button\"><a class=\"button\" href=\"https://publicgood.com/org/midwest-pesticide-action-center-nfp-chicago-il-364361525/campaign/help-spread-the-mgg-message\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">DONATE</a></div>\r\n<div style=\"color: #222222;\"></div>\r\n<div style=\"color: #222222;\"></div>\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n*Donate $10+ and you\'ll receive a \"Keep ON the Grass\" sign.','Take the Pledge','','inherit','closed','open','','2929-autosave-v1','','','2018-04-23 18:47:49','2018-04-23 18:47:49','',2929,'http://midwestpesticideaction.org/2929-autosave-v1/',0,'revision','',0),(3122,2,'2016-03-29 11:32:59','2016-03-29 11:32:59','<h1><a href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/takethepledge_banner.jpg\"><img class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-3039\" src=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/takethepledge_banner.jpg\" alt=\"takethepledge_banner\" width=\"2084\" height=\"730\" /></a></h1>\r\nMore and more, MPAC receives your concerns about reducing the use of potentially harmful gardening and lawn care chemicals in our lawns, parks, and other public places. We want to turn your concerns into action by creating a community of informed citizens ready to organize and advocate for more natural lawn care practices at home and Midwest-wide.\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/MWGG_Logo.png\"><img class=\"alignright wp-image-2279 size-thumbnail\" src=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/MWGG_Logo-150x150.png\" alt=\"MWGG_Logo\" width=\"150\" height=\"150\" /></a>\r\n\r\nBut we need your help! By taking this Midwest Grows Green (MGG) pledge, you join an online, engaged network of citizen activists prepared to eliminate synthetic chemical use on your own lawn and/or garden and at all locations where children, pets, and wildlife live and play. Will you join us?\r\n\r\nYour commitment today gives you access to natural lawn care resources, advocacy support, and event updates from our monthly newsletter and adds your name to the larger MGG effort as we recruit more\r\npesticide-free parks, point-of-purchase retailers, and pledges.\r\n<h2 class=\"pledge-heading\">I am ready to take the pledge to reduce the use of harmful lawn and garden chemicals!</h2>\r\n<ul>\r\n	<li><i class=\"fa fa-check-square-o  fa-2x\"></i>I pledge to eliminate the use of herbicides such as glyphosate (Round Up), 2,4 D, and/or “weed and feed” products on my lawn and in my garden.</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n<ul>\r\n	<li><i class=\"fa fa-check-square-o  fa-2x\"></i>I pledge to adopt one or more of the following natural lawn care practices:\r\n<ul class=\"pledge-nest\">\r\n	<li>Mow high: I will mow my grass to no less than 3 inches.</li>\r\n	<li>Water Properly: I will water my lawn with no more than 1 inch per week.</li>\r\n	<li>Fertilize organically: I will use only naturally derived organic fertilizers on my lawn and garden such as compost, compost tea, alfalfa meal, etc.</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n<!-- Begin MailChimp Signup Form -->\r\n<div id=\"mc_embed_signup\"><form id=\"mc-embedded-subscribe-form\" class=\"validate\" action=\"//midwestpesticideaction.us7.list-manage.com/subscribe/post?u=1a20e747b9a38f4e966cf07e2&amp;id=c7390a996c\" method=\"post\" name=\"mc-embedded-subscribe-form\" novalidate=\"\" target=\"_blank\">\r\n<div id=\"mc_embed_signup_scroll\">\r\n<h2>Fill out the information below to take the pledge.</h2>\r\n<div class=\"indicates-required\"><span class=\"asterisk\">*</span> indicates required</div>\r\n<div class=\"indicates-required\"></div>\r\n<div class=\"mc-field-group\"><label for=\"mce-EMAIL\">Email Address <span class=\"asterisk\">*</span></label>\r\n<input id=\"mce-EMAIL\" class=\"required email\" name=\"EMAIL\" type=\"email\" value=\"\" /></div>\r\n<div class=\"mc-field-group\"></div>\r\n<div class=\"mc-field-group\"><label for=\"mce-FNAME\">First Name <span class=\"asterisk\">*</span></label>\r\n<input id=\"mce-FNAME\" class=\"required\" name=\"FNAME\" type=\"text\" value=\"\" /></div>\r\n<div class=\"mc-field-group\"></div>\r\n<div class=\"mc-field-group\"><label for=\"mce-LNAME\">Last Name <span class=\"asterisk\">*</span></label>\r\n<input id=\"mce-LNAME\" class=\"required\" name=\"LNAME\" type=\"text\" value=\"\" />\r\n<div class=\"mc-field-group\"></div>\r\n<div class=\"mc-address-group\">\r\n<div class=\"mc-field-group\"><label for=\"mce-SADDRESS-addr1\">Street Address </label>\r\n<input id=\"mce-SADDRESS-addr1\" maxlength=\"70\" name=\"SADDRESS[addr1]\" type=\"text\" value=\"\" /></div>\r\n</div>\r\n<div class=\"mc-field-group\"></div>\r\n<div class=\"mc-field-group\"><label for=\"mce-SADDRESS-addr2\">Address Line 2</label>\r\n<input id=\"mce-SADDRESS-addr2\" maxlength=\"70\" name=\"SADDRESS[addr2]\" type=\"text\" value=\"\" /></div>\r\n<div class=\"mc-field-group\"></div>\r\n<div class=\"mc-field-group size1of2\"><label for=\"mce-SADDRESS-city\">City</label>\r\n<input id=\"mce-SADDRESS-city\" maxlength=\"40\" name=\"SADDRESS[city]\" type=\"text\" value=\"\" /></div>\r\n<div class=\"mc-field-group size1of2\"></div>\r\n<div class=\"mc-field-group size1of2\"><label for=\"mce-SADDRESS-state\">State/Province/Region</label>\r\n<input id=\"mce-SADDRESS-state\" maxlength=\"20\" name=\"SADDRESS[state]\" type=\"text\" value=\"\" /></div>\r\n<div class=\"mc-field-group size1of2\"></div>\r\n</div>\r\n<div class=\"mc-field-group\"><label for=\"mce-ZIP\">Zip Code <span class=\"asterisk\">*</span></label>\r\n<input id=\"mce-ZIP\" class=\"required\" name=\"ZIP\" type=\"text\" value=\"\" /></div>\r\n&nbsp;\r\n<div style=\"position: absolute; left: -5000px;\"><input tabindex=\"-1\" name=\"b_1a20e747b9a38f4e966cf07e2_c7390a996c\" type=\"text\" value=\"\" /></div>\r\n<div class=\"pledge-subscribe-button\">\r\n<div class=\"clear\"><input id=\"mc-embedded-subscribe\" class=\"button\" name=\"subscribe\" type=\"submit\" value=\"Subscribe\" /></div>\r\n</div>\r\n</div>\r\n</form></div>\r\n<script src=\"//s3.amazonaws.com/downloads.mailchimp.com/js/mc-validate.js\"></script><script>// <![CDATA[\r\n(function($) {window.fnames = new Array(); window.ftypes = new Array();fnames[0]=\'EMAIL\';ftypes[0]=\'email\';fnames[1]=\'FNAME\';ftypes[1]=\'text\';fnames[2]=\'LNAME\';ftypes[2]=\'text\';fnames[3]=\'SADDRESS\';ftypes[3]=\'address\';fnames[5]=\'CITY\';ftypes[5]=\'address\';fnames[4]=\'ZIP\';ftypes[4]=\'zip\';}(jQuery));var $mcj = jQuery.noConflict(true);\r\n// ]]></script>\r\n<!--End mc_embed_signup-->\r\n<div class=\"clear\"></div>\r\n<div class=\"clear\"></div>\r\n<div class=\"clear\"></div>\r\n<div class=\"clear\"></div>\r\n<div class=\"clear\"></div>\r\n<div class=\"clear\"></div>\r\n<p class=\"donate-paragraph\"><strong>Donate $10+  below and you\'ll receive a \"Keep ON the Grass\" sign.</strong></p>\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<hr />\r\n\r\n<h2 class=\"pledge-heading\">Donate</h2>\r\n<p class=\"tagline ng-binding ng-scope\" style=\"font-weight: 400; color: #666666;\" data-ng-if=\"vm.campaign.content.tagline\">Our goal is to establish 10 pesticide-free parks, 30 point-of-purchase retailers, and 200 MGG pledges by the end of 2016. We need your support.</p>\r\n<p class=\"tagline ng-binding ng-scope\" style=\"font-weight: 400; color: #666666;\" data-ng-if=\"vm.campaign.content.tagline\"><a href=\" http://midwestpesticideaction.org/midwest-grows-green/community-engagement/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\" http://midwestpesticideaction.org/midwest-grows-green/community-engagement/\"><img class=\"alignright wp-image-2389 size-medium\" src=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/KeepOnGrass_sign_generic1-200x300.jpg\" alt=\"KeepOnGrass_sign_generic\" width=\"200\" height=\"300\" /></a></p>\r\n\r\n<ul class=\"pledge-donate\">\r\n	<li><i class=\"fa fa-leaf\"></i>$10 I want a “Keep ON the Grass” sign!*</li>\r\n	<li><i class=\"fa fa-leaf\"></i>$20 I want a point-of-purchase retailer!</li>\r\n	<li><i class=\"fa fa-leaf\"></i>$30 I want to put on an MGG event!</li>\r\n	<li><i class=\"fa fa-leaf\"></i>$50 I want a Pesticide Free Park!</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n<div class=\"pledge-button\"><a class=\"button\" href=\"https://publicgood.com/org/midwest-pesticide-action-center-nfp-chicago-il-364361525/campaign/help-spread-the-mgg-message\" target=\"_blank\">DONATE</a></div>\r\n<div style=\"color: #222222;\"></div>\r\n<div style=\"color: #222222;\"></div>\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n*Donate $10+ and you\'ll receive a \"Keep ON the Grass\" sign.','Take the Pledge','','inherit','closed','open','','2929-revision-v1','','','2016-03-29 11:32:59','2016-03-29 11:32:59','',2929,'http://midwestpesticideaction.org/2929-revision-v1/',0,'revision','',0),(3123,2,'2016-03-30 14:28:01','2016-03-30 14:28:01','<img class=\"alignright wp-image-3097\" src=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/cornglutenmeal.jpg\" alt=\"cornglutenmeal\" width=\"320\" height=\"240\" />\r\n<h3>MPAC\'s Program and Communications Manager Ryan Anderson fills you in on the natural, pre-emergent herbicide corn gluten meal and how to time its application to your lawn for best results.</h3>\r\nAbout a year ago, I planned a trip to New Zealand, Hong Kong, and Thailand for the middle of June. As a cash-strapped recent Masters graduate I had every intention of purchasing the best-priced plane tickets. Research shows that flight prices start moderately high when first released and steadily decrease to their best value about 21-112 days before the flight. Book too soon and the ticket could cost up to $50 higher than the best price, purchase too late and its cost could skyrocket to $200 higher.\r\n\r\nThis window of opportunity scenario applies to corn gluten and our lawns: <a href=\"http://www.gardensalive.com/product/corn-gluten-meal/you_bet_your_garden\" target=\"_blank\">apply too soon</a> and you allow the weed’s dormant seeds to dodge corn gluten’s preventative effects, too late and the weed builds resilience to corn gluten’s pre-emergent herbicidal effects.\r\n\r\nCorn gluten, the by-product of corn processing, contains proteins that inhibit root growth during seed germination for a number of small-seeded annual and perennial weeds that frequent our lawns, including crabgrass and pigweed. Not only does this product offer a natural herbicidal alternative to toxic “weed and feed” lawn products, but it, also, contains a significant amount of nitrogen that our full-grown turf grass loves.\r\n\r\nApplying corn gluten to established weeds, however, will only help them flourish. Corn gluten is most effective when it attacks a weed just before germination or sprouting. Generally, weed germination, specifically for crabgrass, occurs in April and we recommend applying corn gluten in the first few weeks of the month or when forsythias begin to bloom. If you wish to take a more deliberate approach to weed evasion, we recommend purchasing a <a href=\"http://www.todayshomeowner.com/how-to-measure-soil-temperature-for-planting/\" target=\"_blank\">soil thermometer</a> that reaches at least four inches deep and acting once the soil temperature hits 50 degrees. Once you decide to apply, check the weather forecast and pick a time when it will not likely rain over the next few days. <a href=\"http://eartheasy.com/article_corn_gluten.htm\" target=\"_blank\">Wet the corn gluten</a> with a soft spray and you are ready to start suppressing weeds!\r\n\r\nNote that corn gluten will, also, suppress the germination of turf grass seeds, so either plant these seeds in locations away from corn gluten application or wait four to six weeks after for its herbicidal effects to wear off. You can likely find corn gluten products in the “weed n’ feed” section of your local garden center or online. Of course, you can always hire a lawn care company from our list of <a href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/02/WOY_MPAC-Midwest-Natural-Lawn-Care-Companies3.pdf\" target=\"_blank\"> natural lawn care providers</a> and ask them about their corn gluten services. For more resources, visit the <a href=\"http://www.hort.iastate.edu/horticulture-research/corn-gluten-meal-research/\" target=\"_blank\">Iowa State Corn Gluten Meal Research page</a>.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;','Corn Gluten Meal: The do\'s and don\'ts','','inherit','closed','open','','3093-revision-v1','','','2016-03-30 14:28:01','2016-03-30 14:28:01','',3093,'http://midwestpesticideaction.org/3093-revision-v1/',0,'revision','',0),(3127,2,'2016-03-30 22:51:29','2016-03-30 22:51:29','<h2 style=\"text-align: center;\">Midwest Pesticide Action Center Presents: Spring Fling at Revolution Brewery</h2>\r\n<a href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/SpringFling2016_SaveTheDate-1.jpg\"><img class=\"alignleft wp-image-3125 size-full\" src=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/SpringFling2016_SaveTheDate-1.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"400\" height=\"400\" /></a>\r\n\r\nOn Monday, May 9th, 2016, Midwest Pesticide Action Center invites you to <a href=\"http://www.brownpapertickets.com/event/2531869\" target=\"_blank\">join</a><span style=\"color: #222222;\"><a href=\"http://www.brownpapertickets.com/event/2531869\" target=\"_blank\"> in celebrating spring</a> and the work of protecting people and the environment at <a href=\"http://revbrew.com/brewpub\" target=\"_blank\">Revolution Brewing Brewpub</a>.\r\n</span>\r\n\r\nGuests will enjoy the comfy environs of Revolution\'s Brewpub Brewers\' Lounge, hors d\'ouvres from Revolution\'s kitchen, the chance to sample five (5!) house brewed beers, and a raffle of fabulous prizes. There\'s also an opportunity to tour the brewery!\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://www.brownpapertickets.com/event/2531869\" target=\"_blank\">Help us celebrate</a> all the hard work of our partners and activists without whose passion and elbow grease MPAC could never be as successful as we are; our successes in rolling out our new Midwest Grows Green campaign; and, enjoy guest speakers dispensing valuable information on how to manage your own growing things - lawns and gardens - the safe and healthy way.\r\n\r\nMetered street parking can be found outside the brewpub. The Brewers\' Lounge is easily accessible by public transit via the CTA Blue Line - California stop or via the Fullerton, California and Milwaukee buses.\r\n\r\nFor over 20 years, Midwest Pesticide Action Center has been working at the local, state, and regional levels to protect people and the environment from the dangers of pesticides through advocacy, education, and outreach. Midwest Pesticide Action Center creates innovative programs that enable municipalities, low-income housing communities, park and school districts, childcare providers, landscapers, and homeowners to reduce indoor and outdoor pesticide use.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;','Spring Fling 2016','','inherit','closed','open','','1715-revision-v1','','','2016-03-30 22:51:29','2016-03-30 22:51:29','',1715,'http://midwestpesticideaction.org/1715-revision-v1/',0,'revision','',0),(3128,2,'2016-03-30 22:52:26','2016-03-30 22:52:26','<h2 style=\"text-align: center;\">Midwest Pesticide Action Center Presents: Spring Fling at Revolution Brewery</h2>\r\n<a href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/springfling.jpg\"><img class=\"alignleft wp-image-3126 \" src=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/springfling.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"434\" height=\"398\" /></a>\r\n\r\nOn Monday, May 9th, 2016, Midwest Pesticide Action Center invites you to <a href=\"http://www.brownpapertickets.com/event/2531869\" target=\"_blank\">join</a><span style=\"color: #222222;\"><a href=\"http://www.brownpapertickets.com/event/2531869\" target=\"_blank\"> in celebrating spring</a> and the work of protecting people and the environment at <a href=\"http://revbrew.com/brewpub\" target=\"_blank\">Revolution Brewing Brewpub</a>.\r\n</span>\r\n\r\nGuests will enjoy the comfy environs of Revolution\'s Brewpub Brewers\' Lounge, hors d\'ouvres from Revolution\'s kitchen, the chance to sample five (5!) house brewed beers, and a raffle of fabulous prizes. There\'s also an opportunity to tour the brewery!\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://www.brownpapertickets.com/event/2531869\" target=\"_blank\">Help us celebrate</a> all the hard work of our partners and activists without whose passion and elbow grease MPAC could never be as successful as we are; our successes in rolling out our new Midwest Grows Green campaign; and, enjoy guest speakers dispensing valuable information on how to manage your own growing things - lawns and gardens - the safe and healthy way.\r\n\r\nMetered street parking can be found outside the brewpub. The Brewers\' Lounge is easily accessible by public transit via the CTA Blue Line - California stop or via the Fullerton, California and Milwaukee buses.\r\n\r\nFor over 20 years, Midwest Pesticide Action Center has been working at the local, state, and regional levels to protect people and the environment from the dangers of pesticides through advocacy, education, and outreach. Midwest Pesticide Action Center creates innovative programs that enable municipalities, low-income housing communities, park and school districts, childcare providers, landscapers, and homeowners to reduce indoor and outdoor pesticide use.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;','Spring Fling 2016','','inherit','closed','open','','1715-revision-v1','','','2016-03-30 22:52:26','2016-03-30 22:52:26','',1715,'http://midwestpesticideaction.org/1715-revision-v1/',0,'revision','',0),(3132,2,'2016-03-31 00:26:21','2016-03-31 00:26:21','','Home','','inherit','closed','open','','36-revision-v1','','','2016-03-31 00:26:21','2016-03-31 00:26:21','',36,'http://midwestpesticideaction.org/36-revision-v1/',0,'revision','',0),(3133,2,'2016-03-31 00:27:27','2016-03-31 00:27:27','<h2 style=\"text-align: center;\">Midwest Pesticide Action Center Presents: Spring Fling at Revolution Brewery</h2>\r\n<a href=\"http://mpacspringfling.brownpapertickets.com/\" target=\"_blank\"><img class=\"alignleft wp-image-3126\" src=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/springfling.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"434\" height=\"398\" /></a>\r\n\r\nOn Monday, May 9th, 2016, Midwest Pesticide Action Center invites you to join<span style=\"color: #222222;\"><a href=\"http://www.brownpapertickets.com/event/2531869\" target=\"_blank\"> in celebrating spring</a> and the work of protecting people and the environment at <a href=\"http://revbrew.com/brewpub\" target=\"_blank\">Revolution Brewing Brewpub</a>.\r\n</span>\r\n\r\nGuests will enjoy the comfy environs of Revolution\'s Brewpub Brewers\' Lounge, hors d\'ouvres from Revolution\'s kitchen, the chance to sample five (5!) house brewed beers, and a raffle of fabulous prizes. There\'s also an opportunity to tour the brewery!\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://www.brownpapertickets.com/event/2531869\" target=\"_blank\">Help us celebrate</a> all the hard work of our partners and activists without whose passion and elbow grease MPAC could never be as successful as we are; our successes in rolling out our new Midwest Grows Green campaign; and, enjoy guest speakers dispensing valuable information on how to manage your own growing things - lawns and gardens - the safe and healthy way.\r\n\r\nMetered street parking can be found outside the brewpub. The Brewers\' Lounge is easily accessible by public transit via the CTA Blue Line - California stop or via the Fullerton, California and Milwaukee buses.\r\n\r\nFor over 20 years, Midwest Pesticide Action Center has been working at the local, state, and regional levels to protect people and the environment from the dangers of pesticides through advocacy, education, and outreach. Midwest Pesticide Action Center creates innovative programs that enable municipalities, low-income housing communities, park and school districts, childcare providers, landscapers, and homeowners to reduce indoor and outdoor pesticide use.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;','Spring Fling 2016','','inherit','closed','open','','1715-revision-v1','','','2016-03-31 00:27:27','2016-03-31 00:27:27','',1715,'http://midwestpesticideaction.org/1715-revision-v1/',0,'revision','',0),(3135,2,'2016-09-28 19:29:28','0000-00-00 00:00:00','<span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">I am happy to report a recent decrease in the shear panic caused by the awful impacts of the Zika virus in recent months.  Now the epidemiologists, public health officials, and other scientists turn their attention to identifying the conditions that caused the devastating spike in microcephaly seen in several countries including Brazil.  Overwhelmingly, news posts, magazine articles, broadcasts, and social media networks have attributed the jump in cases of infants born with microcephaly to the Zika virus and infected </span><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Aedes</span></i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> mosquitoes .  But, many scientists are still looking for all the causes and I am anxious to hear the answers.</span>\r\n\r\n<span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">We do know that the Zika virus has existed for a long time.  Typical infections cause mild symptoms, so mild, in fact, that most people don’t even notice. We, also, know that the </span><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Aedes </span></i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">mosquito, the only mosquito to carry the virus, thrives in warm and moist climates year round such as tropical or subtropical regions.  To date in the U.S., no known cases of microcephaly have reported links to the Zika virus, nor has the Zika virus infected any U.S. resident or visitor who did not contract it by traveling abroad. </span>\r\n\r\n<span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">I stress these facts to stave off the panic that inevitably comes with initial news of a potentially dangerous disease.  I want to point out that the Midwest - where Midwest Pesticide Action Center resides and engages many concerned citizens - is neither tropical nor subtropical. We have yet to find a single Zika infected mosquito here and we will unlikely ever find one, especially in the more northern parts. Regardless of these facts, I fear people will respond to this perceived threat by spraying more insecticides causing unintended consequences for human health and the environment.</span>\r\n\r\n<span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">A network of Mosquito Abatement Districts, municipal mosquito abatement programs, park districts, and forest preserves already serve, if not over serve, the region.  Although we may disagree with some of their methods and decisions to use mosquito fogging, a host of professionals are monitoring the mosquito populations and looking for transmission pathways for the Zika and other potential viruses to humans. Reports will spread like wildfire at any detection of an </span><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Aedes aegypti</span></i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> mosquito carrying Zika virus. Until then, the current systems of controls are up and running.</span>\r\n\r\n<span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Find more information about proper methods for mosquito control at the </span><a href=\"http://www.cdc.gov/zika/index.html\" target=\"_blank\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Centers for Disease Control and Prevention</span></a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> and </span><a href=\"http://www.who.int/mediacentre/factsheets/zika/en/\" target=\"_blank\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">World Health Organization</span></a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.  Both recommend a comprehensive mosquito control program and indicate that fogging insecticides provides the least effective and most expensive control.  The </span><a href=\"http://www.xerces.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/Effective_Mosquito_Management_Guide-web.pdf\" target=\"_blank\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Xerces Society</span></a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> has comprehensive information on creating a mosquito management plan for communities that’s also pollinator friendly.  And, </span><a href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/Complete-Mosquito-Factsheet-Update.pdf\" target=\"_blank\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Midwest Pesticide Action Center</span></a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> provides some basic control tips you can take yourself.</span>\r\n\r\n<span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The word panic comes from the name of the Greek god Pan, noted for causing groundless fear and loud woodland noises. Let’s not get distracted by the noise but focus on reality.  Let’s wait for the scientists to find out the full story regarding this devastating outbreak.  Already they are </span><a href=\"http://www.who.int/emergencies/zika-virus/articles/rumours/en/\" target=\"_blank\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">dispelling myths and rumors</span></a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. Let’s focus on what we can do to reduce the populations of the more common </span><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Culex </span></i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">and other mosquitos found in the Midwest:  empty pools of standing water like bird baths, flower pots, and swimming pools; decrease the density of bushy vegetation by thinning or elimination; stay in at dusk and dawn when mosquitos are most active; and wear long pants and sleeves to prevent bites.  These actions and activities truly protect us from harm with the least impact on the environment. </span>\r\n\r\n<span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Our hearts go out to all the children and families affected by microcephaly and we support all effective and well planned efforts to prevent it from happening again.  Let’s not add insult to injury by upping the use of harmful insecticides for no reason, while distracting us from the task at hand.</span>','Zika and Panic: Beware the Scare','','draft','closed','open','','','','','2016-09-28 19:29:28','2016-09-28 19:29:28','',0,'http://midwestpesticideaction.org/?p=3135',0,'post','',0),(3136,2,'2016-04-02 23:07:43','2016-04-02 23:07:43','<span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">I am happy to report a recent decrease in the shear panic caused by the awful impacts of the Zika virus in recent months.  Now the epidemiologists, public health officials, and other scientists turn their attention to identifying the conditions that caused the devastating spike in microcephaly seen in several countries including Brazil.  Overwhelmingly, news posts, magazine articles, broadcasts, and social media networks have attributed the jump in cases of infants born with microcephaly to the Zika virus and infected </span><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Aedes</span></i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> mosquitoes .  But, many scientists are still looking for all the causes and I am anxious to hear the answers.</span>\r\n\r\n<span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">We do know that the Zika virus has existed for a long time.  Typical infections cause mild symptoms, so mild, in fact, that most people don’t even notice. We, also, know that the </span><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Aedes </span></i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">mosquito, the only mosquito to carry the virus, thrives in warm and moist climates year round such as tropical or subtropical regions.  To date in the U.S., no known cases of microcephaly have reported links to the Zika virus, nor has the Zika virus infected any U.S. resident or visitor who did not contract it by traveling abroad. </span>\r\n\r\n<span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">I stress these facts to stave off the panic that inevitably comes with initial news of a potentially dangerous disease.  I want to point out that the Midwest - where Midwest Pesticide Action Center resides and engages many concerned citizens - is neither tropical nor subtropical. We have yet to find a single Zika infected mosquito here and we will unlikely ever find one, especially in the more northern parts. Regardless of these facts, I fear people will respond to this perceived threat by spraying more insecticides causing unintended consequences for human health and the environment.</span>\r\n\r\n<span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">A network of Mosquito Abatement Districts, municipal mosquito abatement programs, park districts, and forest preserves already serve, if not over serve, the region.  Although we may disagree with some of their methods and decisions to use mosquito fogging, a host of professionals are monitoring the mosquito populations and looking for transmission pathways for the Zika and other potential viruses to humans. Reports will spread like wildfire at any detection of an </span><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Aedes aegypti</span></i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> mosquito carrying Zika virus. Until then, the current systems of controls are up and running.</span>\r\n\r\n<span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Find more information about proper methods for mosquito control at the </span><a href=\"http://www.cdc.gov/zika/index.html\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Centers for Disease Control and Prevention</span></a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> and </span><a href=\"http://www.who.int/mediacentre/factsheets/zika/en/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">World Health Organization</span></a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.  Both recommend a comprehensive mosquito control program and indicate that fogging insecticides provides the least effective and most expensive control.  The </span><a href=\"http://www.xerces.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/Effective_Mosquito_Management_Guide-web.pdf\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Xerces Society</span></a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> has comprehensive information on creating a mosquito management plan for communities that’s also pollinator friendly.  And, </span><a href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/Complete-Mosquito-Factsheet-Update.pdf\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Midwest Pesticide Action Center</span></a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> provides some basic control tips you can take yourself.</span>\r\n\r\n<span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The word panic comes from the name of the Greek god Pan, noted for causing groundless fear and loud woodland noises. Let’s not get distracted by the noise but focus on reality.  Let’s wait for the scientists to find out the full story regarding this devastating outbreak.  Already they are </span><a href=\"http://www.who.int/emergencies/zika-virus/articles/rumours/en/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">dispelling myths and rumors</span></a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. Let’s focus on what we can do to reduce the populations of the more common </span><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Culex </span></i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">and other mosquitos found in the Midwest:  empty pools of standing water like bird baths, flower pots, and swimming pools; decrease the density of bushy vegetation by thinning or elimination; stay in at dusk and dawn when mosquitos are most active; and wear long pants and sleeves to prevent bites.  These actions and activities truly protect us from harm with the least impact on the environment. </span>\r\n\r\n<span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Our hearts go out to all the children and families affected by microcephaly and we support all effective and well planned efforts to prevent it from happening again.  Let’s not add insult to injury by upping the use of harmful insecticides for no reason, while distracting us from the task at hand.</span>','Zika and Panic: Beware the Scare','','inherit','closed','open','','3135-revision-v1','','','2016-04-02 23:07:43','2016-04-02 23:07:43','',3135,'http://midwestpesticideaction.org/3135-revision-v1/',0,'revision','',0),(3137,2,'2016-04-02 23:09:03','2016-04-02 23:09:03','<span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">I am happy to report a recent decrease in the shear panic caused by the awful impacts of the Zika virus in recent months.  Now the epidemiologists, public health officials, and other scientists turn their attention to identifying the conditions that caused the devastating spike in microcephaly seen in several countries including Brazil.  Overwhelmingly, news posts, magazine articles, broadcasts, and social media networks have attributed the jump in cases of infants born with microcephaly to the Zika virus and infected </span><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Aedes</span></i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> mosquitoes .  But, many scientists are still looking for all the causes and I am anxious to hear the answers.</span>\r\n\r\n<span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">We do know that the Zika virus has existed for a long time.  Typical infections cause mild symptoms, so mild, in fact, that most people don’t even notice. We, also, know that the </span><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Aedes </span></i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">mosquito, the only mosquito to carry the virus, thrives in warm and moist climates year round such as tropical or subtropical regions.  To date in the U.S., no known cases of microcephaly have reported links to the Zika virus, nor has the Zika virus infected any U.S. resident or visitor who did not contract it by traveling abroad. </span>\r\n\r\n<span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">I stress these facts to stave off the panic that inevitably comes with initial news of a potentially dangerous disease.  I want to point out that the Midwest - where Midwest Pesticide Action Center resides and engages many concerned citizens - is neither tropical nor subtropical. We have yet to find a single Zika infected mosquito here and we will unlikely ever find one, especially in the more northern parts. Regardless of these facts, I fear people will respond to this perceived threat by spraying more insecticides causing unintended consequences for human health and the environment.</span>\r\n\r\n<span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">A network of Mosquito Abatement Districts, municipal mosquito abatement programs, park districts, and forest preserves already serve, if not over serve, the region.  Although we may disagree with some of their methods and decisions to use mosquito fogging, a host of professionals are monitoring the mosquito populations and looking for transmission pathways for the Zika and other potential viruses to humans. Reports will spread like wildfire at any detection of an </span><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Aedes aegypti</span></i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> mosquito carrying Zika virus. Until then, the current systems of controls are up and running.</span>\r\n\r\n<span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Find more information about proper methods for mosquito control at the </span><a href=\"http://www.cdc.gov/zika/index.html\" target=\"_blank\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Centers for Disease Control and Prevention</span></a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> and </span><a href=\"http://www.who.int/mediacentre/factsheets/zika/en/\" target=\"_blank\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">World Health Organization</span></a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.  Both recommend a comprehensive mosquito control program and indicate that fogging insecticides provides the least effective and most expensive control.  The </span><a href=\"http://www.xerces.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/Effective_Mosquito_Management_Guide-web.pdf\" target=\"_blank\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Xerces Society</span></a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> has comprehensive information on creating a mosquito management plan for communities that’s also pollinator friendly.  And, </span><a href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/Complete-Mosquito-Factsheet-Update.pdf\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Midwest Pesticide Action Center</span></a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> provides some basic control tips you can take yourself.</span>\r\n\r\n<span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The word panic comes from the name of the Greek god Pan, noted for causing groundless fear and loud woodland noises. Let’s not get distracted by the noise but focus on reality.  Let’s wait for the scientists to find out the full story regarding this devastating outbreak.  Already they are </span><a href=\"http://www.who.int/emergencies/zika-virus/articles/rumours/en/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">dispelling myths and rumors</span></a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. Let’s focus on what we can do to reduce the populations of the more common </span><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Culex </span></i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">and other mosquitos found in the Midwest:  empty pools of standing water like bird baths, flower pots, and swimming pools; decrease the density of bushy vegetation by thinning or elimination; stay in at dusk and dawn when mosquitos are most active; and wear long pants and sleeves to prevent bites.  These actions and activities truly protect us from harm with the least impact on the environment. </span>\r\n\r\n<span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Our hearts go out to all the children and families affected by microcephaly and we support all effective and well planned efforts to prevent it from happening again.  Let’s not add insult to injury by upping the use of harmful insecticides for no reason, while distracting us from the task at hand.</span>','Zika and Panic: Beware the Scare','','inherit','closed','open','','3135-revision-v1','','','2016-04-02 23:09:03','2016-04-02 23:09:03','',3135,'http://midwestpesticideaction.org/3135-revision-v1/',0,'revision','',0),(3138,2,'2016-04-02 23:10:11','2016-04-02 23:10:11','<span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">I am happy to report a recent decrease in the shear panic caused by the awful impacts of the Zika virus in recent months.  Now the epidemiologists, public health officials, and other scientists turn their attention to identifying the conditions that caused the devastating spike in microcephaly seen in several countries including Brazil.  Overwhelmingly, news posts, magazine articles, broadcasts, and social media networks have attributed the jump in cases of infants born with microcephaly to the Zika virus and infected </span><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Aedes</span></i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> mosquitoes .  But, many scientists are still looking for all the causes and I am anxious to hear the answers.</span>\r\n\r\n<span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">We do know that the Zika virus has existed for a long time.  Typical infections cause mild symptoms, so mild, in fact, that most people don’t even notice. We, also, know that the </span><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Aedes </span></i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">mosquito, the only mosquito to carry the virus, thrives in warm and moist climates year round such as tropical or subtropical regions.  To date in the U.S., no known cases of microcephaly have reported links to the Zika virus, nor has the Zika virus infected any U.S. resident or visitor who did not contract it by traveling abroad. </span>\r\n\r\n<span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">I stress these facts to stave off the panic that inevitably comes with initial news of a potentially dangerous disease.  I want to point out that the Midwest - where Midwest Pesticide Action Center resides and engages many concerned citizens - is neither tropical nor subtropical. We have yet to find a single Zika infected mosquito here and we will unlikely ever find one, especially in the more northern parts. Regardless of these facts, I fear people will respond to this perceived threat by spraying more insecticides causing unintended consequences for human health and the environment.</span>\r\n\r\n<span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">A network of Mosquito Abatement Districts, municipal mosquito abatement programs, park districts, and forest preserves already serve, if not over serve, the region.  Although we may disagree with some of their methods and decisions to use mosquito fogging, a host of professionals are monitoring the mosquito populations and looking for transmission pathways for the Zika and other potential viruses to humans. Reports will spread like wildfire at any detection of an </span><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Aedes aegypti</span></i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> mosquito carrying Zika virus. Until then, the current systems of controls are up and running.</span>\r\n\r\n<span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Find more information about proper methods for mosquito control at the </span><a href=\"http://www.cdc.gov/zika/index.html\" target=\"_blank\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Centers for Disease Control and Prevention</span></a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> and </span><a href=\"http://www.who.int/mediacentre/factsheets/zika/en/\" target=\"_blank\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">World Health Organization</span></a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.  Both recommend a comprehensive mosquito control program and indicate that fogging insecticides provides the least effective and most expensive control.  The </span><a href=\"http://www.xerces.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/Effective_Mosquito_Management_Guide-web.pdf\" target=\"_blank\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Xerces Society</span></a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> has comprehensive information on creating a mosquito management plan for communities that’s also pollinator friendly.  And, </span><a href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/Complete-Mosquito-Factsheet-Update.pdf\" target=\"_blank\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Midwest Pesticide Action Center</span></a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> provides some basic control tips you can take yourself.</span>\r\n\r\n<span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The word panic comes from the name of the Greek god Pan, noted for causing groundless fear and loud woodland noises. Let’s not get distracted by the noise but focus on reality.  Let’s wait for the scientists to find out the full story regarding this devastating outbreak.  Already they are </span><a href=\"http://www.who.int/emergencies/zika-virus/articles/rumours/en/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">dispelling myths and rumors</span></a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. Let’s focus on what we can do to reduce the populations of the more common </span><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Culex </span></i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">and other mosquitos found in the Midwest:  empty pools of standing water like bird baths, flower pots, and swimming pools; decrease the density of bushy vegetation by thinning or elimination; stay in at dusk and dawn when mosquitos are most active; and wear long pants and sleeves to prevent bites.  These actions and activities truly protect us from harm with the least impact on the environment. </span>\r\n\r\n<span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Our hearts go out to all the children and families affected by microcephaly and we support all effective and well planned efforts to prevent it from happening again.  Let’s not add insult to injury by upping the use of harmful insecticides for no reason, while distracting us from the task at hand.</span>','Zika and Panic: Beware the Scare','','inherit','closed','open','','3135-revision-v1','','','2016-04-02 23:10:11','2016-04-02 23:10:11','',3135,'http://midwestpesticideaction.org/3135-revision-v1/',0,'revision','',0),(3139,2,'2016-04-02 23:10:52','2016-04-02 23:10:52','<span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">I am happy to report a recent decrease in the shear panic caused by the awful impacts of the Zika virus in recent months.  Now the epidemiologists, public health officials, and other scientists turn their attention to identifying the conditions that caused the devastating spike in microcephaly seen in several countries including Brazil.  Overwhelmingly, news posts, magazine articles, broadcasts, and social media networks have attributed the jump in cases of infants born with microcephaly to the Zika virus and infected </span><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Aedes</span></i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> mosquitoes .  But, many scientists are still looking for all the causes and I am anxious to hear the answers.</span>\r\n\r\n<span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">We do know that the Zika virus has existed for a long time.  Typical infections cause mild symptoms, so mild, in fact, that most people don’t even notice. We, also, know that the </span><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Aedes </span></i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">mosquito, the only mosquito to carry the virus, thrives in warm and moist climates year round such as tropical or subtropical regions.  To date in the U.S., no known cases of microcephaly have reported links to the Zika virus, nor has the Zika virus infected any U.S. resident or visitor who did not contract it by traveling abroad. </span>\r\n\r\n<span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">I stress these facts to stave off the panic that inevitably comes with initial news of a potentially dangerous disease.  I want to point out that the Midwest - where Midwest Pesticide Action Center resides and engages many concerned citizens - is neither tropical nor subtropical. We have yet to find a single Zika infected mosquito here and we will unlikely ever find one, especially in the more northern parts. Regardless of these facts, I fear people will respond to this perceived threat by spraying more insecticides causing unintended consequences for human health and the environment.</span>\r\n\r\n<span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">A network of Mosquito Abatement Districts, municipal mosquito abatement programs, park districts, and forest preserves already serve, if not over serve, the region.  Although we may disagree with some of their methods and decisions to use mosquito fogging, a host of professionals are monitoring the mosquito populations and looking for transmission pathways for the Zika and other potential viruses to humans. Reports will spread like wildfire at any detection of an </span><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Aedes aegypti</span></i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> mosquito carrying Zika virus. Until then, the current systems of controls are up and running.</span>\r\n\r\n<span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Find more information about proper methods for mosquito control at the </span><a href=\"http://www.cdc.gov/zika/index.html\" target=\"_blank\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Centers for Disease Control and Prevention</span></a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> and </span><a href=\"http://www.who.int/mediacentre/factsheets/zika/en/\" target=\"_blank\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">World Health Organization</span></a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.  Both recommend a comprehensive mosquito control program and indicate that fogging insecticides provides the least effective and most expensive control.  The </span><a href=\"http://www.xerces.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/Effective_Mosquito_Management_Guide-web.pdf\" target=\"_blank\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Xerces Society</span></a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> has comprehensive information on creating a mosquito management plan for communities that’s also pollinator friendly.  And, </span><a href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/Complete-Mosquito-Factsheet-Update.pdf\" target=\"_blank\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Midwest Pesticide Action Center</span></a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> provides some basic control tips you can take yourself.</span>\r\n\r\n<span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The word panic comes from the name of the Greek god Pan, noted for causing groundless fear and loud woodland noises. Let’s not get distracted by the noise but focus on reality.  Let’s wait for the scientists to find out the full story regarding this devastating outbreak.  Already they are </span><a href=\"http://www.who.int/emergencies/zika-virus/articles/rumours/en/\" target=\"_blank\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">dispelling myths and rumors</span></a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. Let’s focus on what we can do to reduce the populations of the more common </span><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Culex </span></i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">and other mosquitos found in the Midwest:  empty pools of standing water like bird baths, flower pots, and swimming pools; decrease the density of bushy vegetation by thinning or elimination; stay in at dusk and dawn when mosquitos are most active; and wear long pants and sleeves to prevent bites.  These actions and activities truly protect us from harm with the least impact on the environment. </span>\r\n\r\n<span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Our hearts go out to all the children and families affected by microcephaly and we support all effective and well planned efforts to prevent it from happening again.  Let’s not add insult to injury by upping the use of harmful insecticides for no reason, while distracting us from the task at hand.</span>','Zika and Panic: Beware the Scare','','inherit','closed','open','','3135-revision-v1','','','2016-04-02 23:10:52','2016-04-02 23:10:52','',3135,'http://midwestpesticideaction.org/3135-revision-v1/',0,'revision','',0),(3141,2,'2016-04-22 21:34:49','2016-04-22 21:34:49','<h2 style=\"text-align: center;\">Midwest Pesticide Action Center Presents: Spring Fling at Revolution Brewery</h2>\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_3126\" align=\"alignleft\" width=\"434\"]<a href=\"http://mpacspringfling.brownpapertickets.com/\" target=\"_blank\"><img class=\"wp-image-3126\" src=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/springfling.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"434\" height=\"398\" /></a> Click here to purchase Tickets[/caption]\r\n\r\nOn Monday, May 9th, 2016, Midwest Pesticide Action Center invites you to join<span style=\"color: #222222;\"><a href=\"http://www.brownpapertickets.com/event/2531869\" target=\"_blank\"> in celebrating spring</a> and the work of protecting people and the environment at <a href=\"http://revbrew.com/brewpub\" target=\"_blank\">Revolution Brewing Brewpub</a>.\r\n</span>\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://www.brownpapertickets.com/event/2531869\">For a $35 advance ticket price</a>, guests will enjoy the comfy environs of Revolution\'s Brewpub Brewers\' Lounge, hors d\'ouvres from Revolution\'s kitchen, the chance to sample five (5!) house brewed beers, and a raffle of fabulous prizes. There\'s also an opportunity to tour the brewery!\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://www.brownpapertickets.com/event/2531869\" target=\"_blank\">Help us celebrate</a> all the hard work of our partners and activists without whose passion and elbow grease MPAC could never be as successful as we are; our successes in rolling out our new Midwest Grows Green campaign; and, enjoy guest speakers dispensing valuable information on how to manage your own growing things - lawns and gardens - the safe and healthy way.\r\n\r\nMetered street parking can be found outside the brewpub. The Brewers\' Lounge is easily accessible by public transit via the CTA Blue Line - California stop or via the Fullerton, California and Milwaukee buses.\r\n\r\nFor over 20 years, Midwest Pesticide Action Center has been working at the local, state, and regional levels to protect people and the environment from the dangers of pesticides through advocacy, education, and outreach. Midwest Pesticide Action Center creates innovative programs that enable municipalities, low-income housing communities, park and school districts, childcare providers, landscapers, and homeowners to reduce indoor and outdoor pesticide use.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;','Spring Fling 2016','','inherit','closed','open','','1715-autosave-v1','','','2016-04-22 21:34:49','2016-04-22 21:34:49','',1715,'http://midwestpesticideaction.org/1715-autosave-v1/',0,'revision','',0),(3142,2,'2016-04-22 21:35:07','2016-04-22 21:35:07','<h2 style=\"text-align: center;\">Midwest Pesticide Action Center Presents: Spring Fling at Revolution Brewery</h2>\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_3126\" align=\"alignleft\" width=\"434\"]<a href=\"http://mpacspringfling.brownpapertickets.com/\" target=\"_blank\"><img class=\"wp-image-3126\" src=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/springfling.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"434\" height=\"398\" /></a> Click here to purchase Tickets[/caption]\r\n\r\nOn Monday, May 9th, 2016, Midwest Pesticide Action Center invites you to join<span style=\"color: #222222;\"><a href=\"http://www.brownpapertickets.com/event/2531869\" target=\"_blank\"> in celebrating spring</a> and the work of protecting people and the environment at <a href=\"http://revbrew.com/brewpub\" target=\"_blank\">Revolution Brewing Brewpub</a>.\r\n</span>\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://www.brownpapertickets.com/event/2531869\">For a $35 advance ticket price</a>, guests will enjoy the comfy environs of Revolution\'s Brewpub Brewers\' Lounge, hors d\'ouvres from Revolution\'s kitchen, the chance to sample five (5!) house brewed beers, and a raffle of fabulous prizes. There\'s also an opportunity to tour the brewery!\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://www.brownpapertickets.com/event/2531869\" target=\"_blank\">Help us celebrate</a> all the hard work of our partners and activists without whose passion and elbow grease MPAC could never be as successful as we are; our successes in rolling out our new Midwest Grows Green campaign; and, enjoy guest speakers dispensing valuable information on how to manage your own growing things - lawns and gardens - the safe and healthy way.\r\n\r\nMetered street parking can be found outside the brewpub. The Brewers\' Lounge is easily accessible by public transit via the CTA Blue Line - California stop or via the Fullerton, California and Milwaukee buses.\r\n\r\nFor over 20 years, Midwest Pesticide Action Center has been working at the local, state, and regional levels to protect people and the environment from the dangers of pesticides through advocacy, education, and outreach. Midwest Pesticide Action Center creates innovative programs that enable municipalities, low-income housing communities, park and school districts, childcare providers, landscapers, and homeowners to reduce indoor and outdoor pesticide use.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;','Spring Fling 2016','','inherit','closed','open','','1715-revision-v1','','','2016-04-22 21:35:07','2016-04-22 21:35:07','',1715,'http://midwestpesticideaction.org/1715-revision-v1/',0,'revision','',0),(3143,2,'2016-04-25 18:54:15','2016-04-25 18:54:15','','Home','','inherit','closed','open','','36-revision-v1','','','2016-04-25 18:54:15','2016-04-25 18:54:15','',36,'http://midwestpesticideaction.org/36-revision-v1/',0,'revision','',0),(3144,2,'2016-04-25 18:56:53','2016-04-25 18:56:53','','MGG_KeepOnGrass_sign2','','inherit','closed','open','','mgg_keepongrass_sign2','','','2016-04-25 18:56:53','2016-04-25 18:56:53','',0,'http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/MGG_KeepOnGrass_sign2.pdf',0,'attachment','application/pdf',0),(3145,2,'2016-04-25 18:59:37','2016-04-25 18:59:37','','MGG_KeepOnGrass_sign2','','inherit','closed','open','','mgg_keepongrass_sign2-2','','','2016-04-25 18:59:37','2016-04-25 18:59:37','',0,'http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/MGG_KeepOnGrass_sign2.jpg',0,'attachment','image/jpeg',0),(3146,2,'2016-04-25 19:13:37','2016-04-25 19:13:37','<h1>Midwest Grows Green: Community Engagement<a href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/midwest-grows-green/community-engagement/take-the-pledge/\" target=\"_blank\"><img class=\"alignright wp-image-3145 size-full\" src=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/MGG_KeepOnGrass_sign2-e1461610956324.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"176\" height=\"264\" /></a></h1>\r\nMPAC created the Midwest Grows Green Community Engagement program to help homeowners and other land managers understand the impacts of their practices and learn how to make them more sustainable.  We developed several resources to help concerned residents educate and engage their communities on natural lawn care. We work with community activists and organizers to create a campaign that encourages the adoption of natural lawn care practices to reduce the use of synthetic pesticides and fertilizers.  With community input, MPAC develops customized resources and events promoting natural lawn care that reflect specific community concerns.\r\n<h3 style=\"padding-left: 30px;\">Why is it important to engage your community on natural lawn care?</h3>\r\n<p style=\"padding-left: 30px;\">As communities expand, land-use turns into lawns. Unfortunately, the use of synthetic lawn care products leads to the pollution of our waterways through runoff and negative impacts on the health of people, pets, and wildlife. Many people do not realize that homeowners apply up to 10 times more chemical pesticides to lawn turf per acre than farmers use on crops. In fact, lawn care pesticides are the pesticides most often detected in urban watersheds. This is because polluted runoff from lawns flow into storm water drains which bypass water treatment facilities and empty out directly into rivers, lakes, and streams. In addition, climate change will likely magnify these negative impacts in the Midwest, with longer growing seasons prompting the use of more lawn care products and increasing storm frequency and intensity resulting in more flooding and water runoff.</p>\r\n<p style=\"padding-left: 30px;\"><a href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/09/pesticide_lawn_cropped.jpg\"><img class=\"alignleft wp-image-2649 \" src=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/09/pesticide_lawn_cropped-300x262.jpg\" alt=\"pesticide_lawn_cropped\" width=\"276\" height=\"241\" /></a>In addition to water quality issues, conventional lawn care creates many environmental stressors and health impacts. For example:</p>\r\n\r\n<ol>\r\n<ul>\r\n	<li><i class=\"fa fa-leaf\"></i>Fifty percent of water used for lawns is wasted, and demand for water is expected to increase with growing population and greater drought occurrences.</li>\r\n	<li><i class=\"fa fa-leaf\"></i>Of the 30 pesticides most commonly used on lawns and landscapes, 16 are toxic to birds, 24 are toxic to fish and other aquatic organisms, 11 are toxic to bees, and 11 are endocrine disruptors.</li>\r\n	<li><i class=\"fa fa-leaf\"></i>Research has linked pesticides to cancer, asthma, birth defects and neurological, behavioral, reproductive, hormonal, and immune system disorders in humans. Infants and children are most vulnerable to the health risks associated with pesticide use.</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n</ol>\r\n<h2>Resources</h2>\r\nHere are some examples of resources which MPAC has created for community engagement:\r\n\r\n[one_half]\r\n<h4><strong>Take the MGG Pledge!\r\n</strong></h4>\r\n<a href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/midwest-grows-green/community-engagement/take-the-pledge/\" target=\"_blank\">Join our network </a>of engaged citizen activists prepared to eliminate synthetic chemical use on your own lawn/garden and at all locations where children, pets, and wildlife live and play! Your commitment today gives you access to natural lawn care support through our monthly e-newsletter and adds your name to the larger MGG effort as we recruit more pesticide-free parks, point-of-purchase retailers and pledges.  We\'ll send you a sign for any donation of $5+.\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_2666\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"239\"]<a href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/midwest-grows-green/community-engagement/take-the-pledge/\" target=\"_blank\"><img class=\"wp-image-2666 size-medium\" src=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/09/Pledge_Generic_cropped_image-239x300.jpg\" alt=\"Pledge_Generic_cropped_image\" width=\"239\" height=\"300\" /></a> Click to view the Pledge.[/caption]\r\n\r\n[/one_half]\r\n\r\n[one_half]\r\n<h4><strong>Tips on Keeping our Yards Green &amp; Waters Clean</strong></h4>\r\nThis natural lawn care pamphlet can be customized for community needs. It gives tips on how to reduce water pollution while maintaining beautiful outdoor spaces that are safe for people and pets to enjoy.\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_2309\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"376\"]<a href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/09/MWGG_Brochure_final.pdf\" target=\"_blank\"><img class=\"wp-image-2309\" src=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/MWGG-Tips-on-Keeping-Yards-Green-and-Waters-Clean-300x231.jpg\" alt=\"MWGG-Tips-on-Keeping-Yards-Green-and-Waters-Clean\" width=\"376\" height=\"289\" /></a> Click to view the pamphlet.[/caption]\r\n\r\n[/one_half]\r\n\r\n<strong>For more information about this and other MGG programs, contact Ryan Anderson at <a href=\"mailto:randerson@pesticideaction.org\">randerson@pesticideaction.org</a> and “Midwest Grows Green” as the subject.  Or, call us at (773) 878-7378.</strong>\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/midwest-grows-green/\">Return</a> to the Midwest Grows Green homepage to learn more about how reducing the use of pesticides by adopting natural lawn care can benefit the health of your community and the environment.','Midwest Grows Green: Community Engagement','','inherit','closed','open','','2495-revision-v1','','','2016-04-25 19:13:37','2016-04-25 19:13:37','',2495,'http://midwestpesticideaction.org/2495-revision-v1/',0,'revision','',0),(3147,2,'2016-04-25 19:31:27','2016-04-25 19:31:27','<h1>Midwest Grows Green: Community Engagement<a href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/midwest-grows-green/community-engagement/take-the-pledge/\" target=\"_blank\"><img class=\"alignright wp-image-3145 size-full\" src=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/MGG_KeepOnGrass_sign2-e1461610956324.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"176\" height=\"264\" /></a></h1>\r\nMPAC created the Midwest Grows Green Community Engagement program to help homeowners and other land managers understand the impacts of their practices and learn how to make them more sustainable.  We developed several resources to help concerned residents educate and engage their communities on natural lawn care. We work with community activists and organizers to create a campaign that encourages the adoption of natural lawn care practices to reduce the use of synthetic pesticides and fertilizers.  With community input, MPAC develops customized resources and events promoting natural lawn care that reflect specific community concerns.\r\n<h3 style=\"padding-left: 30px;\">Why is it important to engage your community on natural lawn care?</h3>\r\n<p style=\"padding-left: 30px;\">As communities expand, land-use turns into lawns. Unfortunately, the use of synthetic lawn care products leads to the pollution of our waterways through runoff and negative impacts on the health of people, pets, and wildlife. Many people do not realize that homeowners apply up to 10 times more chemical pesticides to lawn turf per acre than farmers use on crops. In fact, lawn care pesticides are the pesticides most often detected in urban watersheds. This is because polluted runoff from lawns flow into storm water drains which bypass water treatment facilities and empty out directly into rivers, lakes, and streams. In addition, climate change will likely magnify these negative impacts in the Midwest, with longer growing seasons prompting the use of more lawn care products and increasing storm frequency and intensity resulting in more flooding and water runoff.</p>\r\n<p style=\"padding-left: 30px;\"><a href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/09/pesticide_lawn_cropped.jpg\"><img class=\"alignleft wp-image-2649 \" src=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/09/pesticide_lawn_cropped-300x262.jpg\" alt=\"pesticide_lawn_cropped\" width=\"276\" height=\"241\" /></a>In addition to water quality issues, conventional lawn care creates many environmental stressors and health impacts. For example:</p>\r\n\r\n<ol>\r\n<ul>\r\n	<li><i class=\"fa fa-leaf\"></i>Fifty percent of water used for lawns is wasted, and demand for water is expected to increase with growing population and greater drought occurrences.</li>\r\n	<li><i class=\"fa fa-leaf\"></i>Of the 30 pesticides most commonly used on lawns and landscapes, 16 are toxic to birds, 24 are toxic to fish and other aquatic organisms, 11 are toxic to bees, and 11 are endocrine disruptors.</li>\r\n	<li><i class=\"fa fa-leaf\"></i>Research has linked pesticides to cancer, asthma, birth defects and neurological, behavioral, reproductive, hormonal, and immune system disorders in humans. Infants and children are most vulnerable to the health risks associated with pesticide use.</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n</ol>\r\n<h2>Resources</h2>\r\nHere are some examples of resources which MPAC has created for community engagement:\r\n\r\n[one_half]\r\n<h4><strong>Take the MGG Pledge!\r\n</strong></h4>\r\n<a href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/midwest-grows-green/community-engagement/take-the-pledge/\" target=\"_blank\">Join our network </a>of engaged citizen activists prepared to eliminate synthetic chemical use on your own lawn/garden and at all locations where children, pets, and wildlife live and play! Your commitment today gives you access to natural lawn care support through our monthly e-newsletter and adds your name to the larger MGG effort as we recruit more pesticide-free parks, point-of-purchase retailers and pledges.  We\'ll send you a sign for any donation of $10+.\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_2666\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"239\"]<a href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/midwest-grows-green/community-engagement/take-the-pledge/\" target=\"_blank\"><img class=\"wp-image-2666 size-medium\" src=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/09/Pledge_Generic_cropped_image-239x300.jpg\" alt=\"Pledge_Generic_cropped_image\" width=\"239\" height=\"300\" /></a> Click to take the Pledge![/caption]\r\n\r\n[/one_half]\r\n\r\n[one_half]\r\n<h4><strong>Tips on Keeping our Yards Green &amp; Waters Clean</strong></h4>\r\nThis natural lawn care pamphlet can be customized for community needs. It gives tips on how to reduce water pollution while maintaining beautiful outdoor spaces that are safe for people and pets to enjoy.\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_2309\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"376\"]<a href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/09/MWGG_Brochure_final.pdf\" target=\"_blank\"><img class=\"wp-image-2309\" src=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/MWGG-Tips-on-Keeping-Yards-Green-and-Waters-Clean-300x231.jpg\" alt=\"MWGG-Tips-on-Keeping-Yards-Green-and-Waters-Clean\" width=\"376\" height=\"289\" /></a> Click to view the pamphlet.[/caption]\r\n\r\n[/one_half]\r\n\r\n<strong>For more information about this and other MGG programs, contact Ryan Anderson at <a href=\"mailto:randerson@pesticideaction.org\">randerson@pesticideaction.org</a> and “Midwest Grows Green” as the subject.  Or, call us at (773) 878-7378.</strong>\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/midwest-grows-green/\">Return</a> to the Midwest Grows Green homepage to learn more about how reducing the use of pesticides by adopting natural lawn care can benefit the health of your community and the environment.','Midwest Grows Green: Community Engagement','','inherit','closed','open','','2495-revision-v1','','','2016-04-25 19:31:27','2016-04-25 19:31:27','',2495,'http://midwestpesticideaction.org/2495-revision-v1/',0,'revision','',0),(3148,2,'2016-04-28 21:19:25','2016-04-28 21:19:25','<h3></h3>\r\n<h3><img class=\"alignright wp-image-2143 size-medium\" src=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/1620-x-1080-testing-soil-quality-soil-pH-values1-300x200.jpg\" alt=\"1620 x 1080 testing-soil-quality-soil-pH-values1\" width=\"300\" height=\"200\" />MPAC\'s Program and Communication Manager Ryan Anderson covers the amazing life and diversity found in the place you\'d least expect: your lawn\'s soil.</h3>\r\nThe most bio diverse ecosystem on earth does not reside in the Great Barrier Reef or the Amazon. NO, it lives right in your backyard! Just <a href=\"http://www.ext.colostate.edu/mg/gardennotes/212.html\" target=\"_blank\">one cup of soil</a> can contain 200 billion bacteria, 20 million protozoa, 100 thousand nematodes, and 50 thousand arthropods.\r\n\r\nThe soil in your yard holds amazing complexity and diversity that will make or break your natural lawn depending on how you care for it.  When <a href=\"http://www.nrcs.usda.gov/wps/portal/nrcs/detailfull/soils/health/biology/?cid=nrcs142p2_053868\" target=\"_blank\">treated and maintained well</a>, beneficial soil organisms thrive and improve turf health by decomposing organic matter, cycling nutrients, strengthening soil structure, and controlling diseases and pests.  When mishandled, you create a haven for unwanted weeds, grass killers, and disease.\r\n\r\nWhen managing turf, stop thinking how to achieve a “green” lawn, and start implementing strategies that best treat the whole living soil organism/web that provides for your grass. Vital soil microorganisms, nematodes, earthworms, and arthropods flourish in nutrient-rich, porous, and well-moisturized organic matter.\r\n\r\nIn line with our <a href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-NLC-Calendar.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Natural Lawn Care Calendar</a>, MPAC identifies three strategies to build vibrant and life-producing organic matter for May:\r\n<ol>\r\n	<li><strong>Avoid compacted soil by aerating it-</strong> No one likes to feel constricted; neither do the organisms living in your soil! <a href=\"http://www.ext.colostate.edu/mg/Gardennotes/215.html\" target=\"_blank\">Compacted soil restricts</a> air access, growth ability, and water uptake capacity of all living organisms including your turf’s roots.  Causes of soil compaction include heavy foot traffic, home construction, and/or heavy rain and sprinkler irrigation. Prevention techniques, such as building walkways to steer foot traffic away from turf, will improve living conditions, but every once in a while you will need to loosen the soil by <a href=\"http://www.ipm.ucdavis.edu/TOOLS/TURF/MAINTAIN/aeratehow.html\" target=\"_blank\">aerating it</a>.  A well aerated soil enables air, water, and nutrients to freely diffuse into your lawn.  The frequency you should aerate the soil depends on the lawn’s <a href=\"http://www.ipm.ucdavis.edu/TOOLS/TURF/MAINTAIN/aeratetime.html\" target=\"_blank\">soil type, foot traffic, and desirable appearance</a>. We recommend aeration at least once in May and September, but some soils (i.e. low traffic and sandy soils) may not even need treatment.</li>\r\n</ol>\r\n<ol start=\"2\">\r\n	<li><strong>Amend your soil with compost, humus, and worm castings- </strong>I always tell lawn care managers that healthy soil requires 16 essential nutrients and a loose, porous structure that boosts its water and nutrient carrying capacity. Simply applying synthetic fertilizers will not create this desirable soil environment, since they often provide only three of the essential nutrients (nitrogen, phosphorous, and potassium) and add no value to soil texture and drainage. When thoroughly mixed in to the whole soil structure, <a href=\"http://extension.colostate.edu/topic-areas/yard-garden/choosing-a-soil-amendment/\" target=\"_blank\">soil amendments</a> of <a href=\"http://extension.missouri.edu/p/g6956\" target=\"_blank\">compost</a>, humus, worm castings, and other materials contribute needed nutrients, while improving the soil’s physical properties of aeration and water retention, infiltration, and drainage. For turf, responsibilities for mixing these materials into the soil fall on the soil’s microorganisms.  <a href=\"http://www.dummies.com/how-to/content/how-to-topdress-lawns-with-compost.html\" target=\"_blank\">Top-dressing</a> your lawn with a ¼-inch layer of compost will rejuvenate microorganism life in your soil. For applying compost to lawns try to use particle sizes less than 3/8-inches so the organic matter can more easily travel between grass blades and avoid smothering the grass.  Dry compost may amend your soil over a period of time, but if you want to speed the process look to <a href=\"http://extension.oregonstate.edu/douglas/mg/dcmg/aerated-compost-tea\" target=\"_blank\">compost tea</a>.</li>\r\n</ol>\r\n<ol start=\"3\">\r\n	<li><strong>Refrain from applying unneeded pesticides- </strong>I can’t represent the Midwest Pesticide Action Center without mentioning pesticides, right?!! Pesticides, which include fungicides, insecticides, and herbicides, are designed to kill living things.  So, it should not surprise you that these chemicals can seep into the soil and kill/harm living organisms, particularly vital microorganisms.  In addition to killing microorganisms, pesticides have altered their enzymatic activity and <a href=\"https://microbewiki.kenyon.edu/index.php/Effect_of_pesticides_and_biotransformation_of_pesticides_by_soil_microbes\" target=\"_blank\">inhibited their nitrogen fixing ability</a>.</li>\r\n</ol>','Ignore your turf! Worry about the bottom-dwellers (literally)','','publish','closed','open','','worryaboutthebottomdwellers','','','2016-05-03 15:13:18','2016-05-03 15:13:18','',0,'http://midwestpesticideaction.org/?p=3148',0,'post','',3),(3149,2,'2016-04-28 19:06:10','2016-04-28 19:06:10','The most bio diverse ecosystem on earth does not reside in the Great Barrier Reef or the Amazon. NO, it lives right in your backyard! Just <a href=\"http://www.ext.colostate.edu/mg/gardennotes/212.html\">one cup of native soil</a> can contain 200 billion bacteria, 20 million protozoa, 100 thousand nematodes, and 50 thousand arthropods.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nThe soil in your yard holds amazing complexity and diversity that will make or break your natural lawn depending on how you care for it.  When <a href=\"http://www.nrcs.usda.gov/wps/portal/nrcs/detailfull/soils/health/biology/?cid=nrcs142p2_053868\">treated and maintained well</a>, beneficial soil organisms will thrive and improve turf health by decomposing organic matter, cycling nutrients, strengthening soil structure, and controlling diseases and pests.  When mishandled, you create a haven for unwanted weeds, grass killers, and disease.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nWhen managing turf, stop thinking how to achieve a “green” lawn, and start implementing strategies that best treat the whole living soil organism/web that provides for your grass. Vital soil microorganisms, nematodes, earthworms, and arthropods flourish in nutrient-rich, porous, and well-moisturized organic matter.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nIn line with our Natural Lawn Care Calendar, MPAC identifies three strategies to build vibrant and life-producing organic matter for May:\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n<ol>\r\n	<li><strong>Avoid Compacted Soil by aerating it-</strong> No one likes to feel constricted; neither do the organisms living in your soil! <a href=\"http://www.ext.colostate.edu/mg/Gardennotes/215.html\">Compacted soil restricts</a> air access, growth ability, and water uptake capacity of all living organisms including your turf’s roots.  Causes of soil compaction include heavy foot traffic, home construction, and/or heavy rain and sprinkler irrigation. Prevention techniques, such as building walkways to steer foot traffic away from turf, will improve living conditions, but every once in a while you will need to loosen the soil by <a href=\"http://www.ipm.ucdavis.edu/TOOLS/TURF/MAINTAIN/aeratehow.html\">aerating it</a>.  A well aerated soil enables air, water, and nutrients to freely diffuse into your lawn.  The frequency you should aerate the soil depends on the lawn’s <a href=\"http://www.ipm.ucdavis.edu/TOOLS/TURF/MAINTAIN/aeratetime.html\">soil type, foot traffic, and desirable appearance</a>. We recommend aeration at least once in May and September, but some soils (i.e. low traffic and sandy soils) may not even need treatment.</li>\r\n</ol>\r\n&nbsp;\r\n<ol start=\"2\">\r\n	<li><strong>Amend your soil with compost, humus, and worm castings- </strong>I always tell lawn care managers that healthy soil requires 16 essential nutrients and a loose, porous structure that boosts its water and nutrient carrying capacity. Simply applying synthetic fertilizers will not create this desirable soil environment, since they often provide only three of the essential nutrients (nitrogen, phosphorous, and potassium) and add no value to soil texture and drainage. When thoroughly mixed in to the whole soil structure, <a href=\"http://extension.colostate.edu/topic-areas/yard-garden/choosing-a-soil-amendment/\">soil amendments</a> of <a href=\"http://extension.missouri.edu/p/g6956\">compost</a>, humus, worm castings, and other materials contribute needed nutrients, while improving the soil’s physical properties of aeration and water retention, infiltration, and drainage.</li>\r\n</ol>\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nFor turf, responsibilities for mixing these materials into the soil fall on the soil’s microorganisms.  <a href=\"http://www.dummies.com/how-to/content/how-to-topdress-lawns-with-compost.html\">Top-dressing</a> your lawn with a ¼-inch layer of compost will rejuvenate microorganism life in your soil. For applying compost to lawns try to use particle sizes less than 3/8-inches so the organic matter can more easily travel between grass blades and avoid smothering the grass.  Dry compost may amend your soil over a period of time, but if you want to speed the process look to <a href=\"http://extension.oregonstate.edu/douglas/mg/dcmg/aerated-compost-tea\">compost tea</a>.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n<ol start=\"3\">\r\n	<li><strong>Refrain from applying unneeded pesticides- </strong>I can’t represent the Midwest Pesticide Action Center without mentioning pesticides, right?!! Pesticides, which include fungicides, insecticides, and herbicides, are designed to kill living things.  So, it should not surprise you that these chemicals can seep into the soil and kill/harm living organisms, particularly vital microorganisms.  In addition to killing microorganisms, pesticides have altered their enzymatic activity and <a href=\"https://microbewiki.kenyon.edu/index.php/Effect_of_pesticides_and_biotransformation_of_pesticides_by_soil_microbes\">inhibited their nitrogen fixing ability</a>.</li>\r\n</ol>\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;','','','inherit','closed','open','','3148-revision-v1','','','2016-04-28 19:06:10','2016-04-28 19:06:10','',3148,'http://midwestpesticideaction.org/3148-revision-v1/',0,'revision','',0),(3150,2,'2016-04-28 19:08:29','2016-04-28 19:08:29','The most bio diverse ecosystem on earth does not reside in the Great Barrier Reef or the Amazon. NO, it lives right in your backyard! Just <a href=\"http://www.ext.colostate.edu/mg/gardennotes/212.html\">one cup of native soil</a> can contain 200 billion bacteria, 20 million protozoa, 100 thousand nematodes, and 50 thousand arthropods.\r\n\r\nThe soil in your yard holds amazing complexity and diversity that will make or break your natural lawn depending on how you care for it.  When <a href=\"http://www.nrcs.usda.gov/wps/portal/nrcs/detailfull/soils/health/biology/?cid=nrcs142p2_053868\">treated and maintained well</a>, beneficial soil organisms will thrive and improve turf health by decomposing organic matter, cycling nutrients, strengthening soil structure, and controlling diseases and pests.  When mishandled, you create a haven for unwanted weeds, grass killers, and disease.\r\n\r\nWhen managing turf, stop thinking how to achieve a “green” lawn, and start implementing strategies that best treat the whole living soil organism/web that provides for your grass. Vital soil microorganisms, nematodes, earthworms, and arthropods flourish in nutrient-rich, porous, and well-moisturized organic matter.\r\n\r\nIn line with our Natural Lawn Care Calendar, MPAC identifies three strategies to build vibrant and life-producing organic matter for May:\r\n<ol>\r\n	<li><strong>Avoid Compacted Soil by aerating it-</strong> No one likes to feel constricted; neither do the organisms living in your soil! <a href=\"http://www.ext.colostate.edu/mg/Gardennotes/215.html\">Compacted soil restricts</a> air access, growth ability, and water uptake capacity of all living organisms including your turf’s roots.  Causes of soil compaction include heavy foot traffic, home construction, and/or heavy rain and sprinkler irrigation. Prevention techniques, such as building walkways to steer foot traffic away from turf, will improve living conditions, but every once in a while you will need to loosen the soil by <a href=\"http://www.ipm.ucdavis.edu/TOOLS/TURF/MAINTAIN/aeratehow.html\">aerating it</a>.  A well aerated soil enables air, water, and nutrients to freely diffuse into your lawn.  The frequency you should aerate the soil depends on the lawn’s <a href=\"http://www.ipm.ucdavis.edu/TOOLS/TURF/MAINTAIN/aeratetime.html\">soil type, foot traffic, and desirable appearance</a>. We recommend aeration at least once in May and September, but some soils (i.e. low traffic and sandy soils) may not even need treatment.</li>\r\n</ol>\r\n<ol start=\"2\">\r\n	<li><strong>Amend your soil with compost, humus, and worm castings- </strong>I always tell lawn care managers that healthy soil requires 16 essential nutrients and a loose, porous structure that boosts its water and nutrient carrying capacity. Simply applying synthetic fertilizers will not create this desirable soil environment, since they often provide only three of the essential nutrients (nitrogen, phosphorous, and potassium) and add no value to soil texture and drainage. When thoroughly mixed in to the whole soil structure, <a href=\"http://extension.colostate.edu/topic-areas/yard-garden/choosing-a-soil-amendment/\">soil amendments</a> of <a href=\"http://extension.missouri.edu/p/g6956\">compost</a>, humus, worm castings, and other materials contribute needed nutrients, while improving the soil’s physical properties of aeration and water retention, infiltration, and drainage. For turf, responsibilities for mixing these materials into the soil fall on the soil’s microorganisms.  <a href=\"http://www.dummies.com/how-to/content/how-to-topdress-lawns-with-compost.html\">Top-dressing</a> your lawn with a ¼-inch layer of compost will rejuvenate microorganism life in your soil. For applying compost to lawns try to use particle sizes less than 3/8-inches so the organic matter can more easily travel between grass blades and avoid smothering the grass.  Dry compost may amend your soil over a period of time, but if you want to speed the process look to <a href=\"http://extension.oregonstate.edu/douglas/mg/dcmg/aerated-compost-tea\">compost tea</a>.</li>\r\n</ol>\r\n<ol start=\"3\">\r\n	<li><strong>Refrain from applying unneeded pesticides- </strong>I can’t represent the Midwest Pesticide Action Center without mentioning pesticides, right?!! Pesticides, which include fungicides, insecticides, and herbicides, are designed to kill living things.  So, it should not surprise you that these chemicals can seep into the soil and kill/harm living organisms, particularly vital microorganisms.  In addition to killing microorganisms, pesticides have altered their enzymatic activity and <a href=\"https://microbewiki.kenyon.edu/index.php/Effect_of_pesticides_and_biotransformation_of_pesticides_by_soil_microbes\">inhibited their nitrogen fixing ability</a>.</li>\r\n</ol>','','','inherit','closed','open','','3148-revision-v1','','','2016-04-28 19:08:29','2016-04-28 19:08:29','',3148,'http://midwestpesticideaction.org/3148-revision-v1/',0,'revision','',0),(3151,2,'2016-04-28 19:10:14','2016-04-28 19:10:14','The most bio diverse ecosystem on earth does not reside in the Great Barrier Reef or the Amazon. NO, it lives right in your backyard! Just <a href=\"http://www.ext.colostate.edu/mg/gardennotes/212.html\" target=\"_blank\">one cup of native soil</a> can contain 200 billion bacteria, 20 million protozoa, 100 thousand nematodes, and 50 thousand arthropods.\r\n\r\nThe soil in your yard holds amazing complexity and diversity that will make or break your natural lawn depending on how you care for it.  When <a href=\"http://www.nrcs.usda.gov/wps/portal/nrcs/detailfull/soils/health/biology/?cid=nrcs142p2_053868\" target=\"_blank\">treated and maintained well</a>, beneficial soil organisms will thrive and improve turf health by decomposing organic matter, cycling nutrients, strengthening soil structure, and controlling diseases and pests.  When mishandled, you create a haven for unwanted weeds, grass killers, and disease.\r\n\r\nWhen managing turf, stop thinking how to achieve a “green” lawn, and start implementing strategies that best treat the whole living soil organism/web that provides for your grass. Vital soil microorganisms, nematodes, earthworms, and arthropods flourish in nutrient-rich, porous, and well-moisturized organic matter.\r\n\r\nIn line with our Natural Lawn Care Calendar, MPAC identifies three strategies to build vibrant and life-producing organic matter for May:\r\n<ol>\r\n	<li><strong>Avoid Compacted Soil by aerating it-</strong> No one likes to feel constricted; neither do the organisms living in your soil! <a href=\"http://www.ext.colostate.edu/mg/Gardennotes/215.html\" target=\"_blank\">Compacted soil restricts</a> air access, growth ability, and water uptake capacity of all living organisms including your turf’s roots.  Causes of soil compaction include heavy foot traffic, home construction, and/or heavy rain and sprinkler irrigation. Prevention techniques, such as building walkways to steer foot traffic away from turf, will improve living conditions, but every once in a while you will need to loosen the soil by <a href=\"http://www.ipm.ucdavis.edu/TOOLS/TURF/MAINTAIN/aeratehow.html\" target=\"_blank\">aerating it</a>.  A well aerated soil enables air, water, and nutrients to freely diffuse into your lawn.  The frequency you should aerate the soil depends on the lawn’s <a href=\"http://www.ipm.ucdavis.edu/TOOLS/TURF/MAINTAIN/aeratetime.html\" target=\"_blank\">soil type, foot traffic, and desirable appearance</a>. We recommend aeration at least once in May and September, but some soils (i.e. low traffic and sandy soils) may not even need treatment.</li>\r\n</ol>\r\n<ol start=\"2\">\r\n	<li><strong>Amend your soil with compost, humus, and worm castings- </strong>I always tell lawn care managers that healthy soil requires 16 essential nutrients and a loose, porous structure that boosts its water and nutrient carrying capacity. Simply applying synthetic fertilizers will not create this desirable soil environment, since they often provide only three of the essential nutrients (nitrogen, phosphorous, and potassium) and add no value to soil texture and drainage. When thoroughly mixed in to the whole soil structure, <a href=\"http://extension.colostate.edu/topic-areas/yard-garden/choosing-a-soil-amendment/\" target=\"_blank\">soil amendments</a> of <a href=\"http://extension.missouri.edu/p/g6956\" target=\"_blank\">compost</a>, humus, worm castings, and other materials contribute needed nutrients, while improving the soil’s physical properties of aeration and water retention, infiltration, and drainage. For turf, responsibilities for mixing these materials into the soil fall on the soil’s microorganisms.  <a href=\"http://www.dummies.com/how-to/content/how-to-topdress-lawns-with-compost.html\" target=\"_blank\">Top-dressing</a> your lawn with a ¼-inch layer of compost will rejuvenate microorganism life in your soil. For applying compost to lawns try to use particle sizes less than 3/8-inches so the organic matter can more easily travel between grass blades and avoid smothering the grass.  Dry compost may amend your soil over a period of time, but if you want to speed the process look to <a href=\"http://extension.oregonstate.edu/douglas/mg/dcmg/aerated-compost-tea\" target=\"_blank\">compost tea</a>.</li>\r\n</ol>\r\n<ol start=\"3\">\r\n	<li><strong>Refrain from applying unneeded pesticides- </strong>I can’t represent the Midwest Pesticide Action Center without mentioning pesticides, right?!! Pesticides, which include fungicides, insecticides, and herbicides, are designed to kill living things.  So, it should not surprise you that these chemicals can seep into the soil and kill/harm living organisms, particularly vital microorganisms.  In addition to killing microorganisms, pesticides have altered their enzymatic activity and <a href=\"https://microbewiki.kenyon.edu/index.php/Effect_of_pesticides_and_biotransformation_of_pesticides_by_soil_microbes\" target=\"_blank\">inhibited their nitrogen fixing ability</a>.</li>\r\n</ol>','','','inherit','closed','open','','3148-revision-v1','','','2016-04-28 19:10:14','2016-04-28 19:10:14','',3148,'http://midwestpesticideaction.org/3148-revision-v1/',0,'revision','',0),(3152,2,'2016-04-28 19:14:35','2016-04-28 19:14:35','The most bio diverse ecosystem on earth does not reside in the Great Barrier Reef or the Amazon. NO, it lives right in your backyard! Just <a href=\"http://www.ext.colostate.edu/mg/gardennotes/212.html\" target=\"_blank\">one cup of native soil</a> can contain 200 billion bacteria, 20 million protozoa, 100 thousand nematodes, and 50 thousand arthropods.\r\n\r\nThe soil in your yard holds amazing complexity and diversity that will make or break your natural lawn depending on how you care for it.  When <a href=\"http://www.nrcs.usda.gov/wps/portal/nrcs/detailfull/soils/health/biology/?cid=nrcs142p2_053868\" target=\"_blank\">treated and maintained well</a>, beneficial soil organisms will thrive and improve turf health by decomposing organic matter, cycling nutrients, strengthening soil structure, and controlling diseases and pests.  When mishandled, you create a haven for unwanted weeds, grass killers, and disease.\r\n\r\nWhen managing turf, stop thinking how to achieve a “green” lawn, and start implementing strategies that best treat the whole living soil organism/web that provides for your grass. Vital soil microorganisms, nematodes, earthworms, and arthropods flourish in nutrient-rich, porous, and well-moisturized organic matter.\r\n\r\nIn line with our <a href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-NLC-Calendar.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Natural Lawn Care Calendar</a>, MPAC identifies three strategies to build vibrant and life-producing organic matter for May:\r\n<ol>\r\n	<li><strong>Avoid Compacted Soil by aerating it-</strong> No one likes to feel constricted; neither do the organisms living in your soil! <a href=\"http://www.ext.colostate.edu/mg/Gardennotes/215.html\" target=\"_blank\">Compacted soil restricts</a> air access, growth ability, and water uptake capacity of all living organisms including your turf’s roots.  Causes of soil compaction include heavy foot traffic, home construction, and/or heavy rain and sprinkler irrigation. Prevention techniques, such as building walkways to steer foot traffic away from turf, will improve living conditions, but every once in a while you will need to loosen the soil by <a href=\"http://www.ipm.ucdavis.edu/TOOLS/TURF/MAINTAIN/aeratehow.html\" target=\"_blank\">aerating it</a>.  A well aerated soil enables air, water, and nutrients to freely diffuse into your lawn.  The frequency you should aerate the soil depends on the lawn’s <a href=\"http://www.ipm.ucdavis.edu/TOOLS/TURF/MAINTAIN/aeratetime.html\" target=\"_blank\">soil type, foot traffic, and desirable appearance</a>. We recommend aeration at least once in May and September, but some soils (i.e. low traffic and sandy soils) may not even need treatment.</li>\r\n</ol>\r\n<ol start=\"2\">\r\n	<li><strong>Amend your soil with compost, humus, and worm castings- </strong>I always tell lawn care managers that healthy soil requires 16 essential nutrients and a loose, porous structure that boosts its water and nutrient carrying capacity. Simply applying synthetic fertilizers will not create this desirable soil environment, since they often provide only three of the essential nutrients (nitrogen, phosphorous, and potassium) and add no value to soil texture and drainage. When thoroughly mixed in to the whole soil structure, <a href=\"http://extension.colostate.edu/topic-areas/yard-garden/choosing-a-soil-amendment/\" target=\"_blank\">soil amendments</a> of <a href=\"http://extension.missouri.edu/p/g6956\" target=\"_blank\">compost</a>, humus, worm castings, and other materials contribute needed nutrients, while improving the soil’s physical properties of aeration and water retention, infiltration, and drainage. For turf, responsibilities for mixing these materials into the soil fall on the soil’s microorganisms.  <a href=\"http://www.dummies.com/how-to/content/how-to-topdress-lawns-with-compost.html\" target=\"_blank\">Top-dressing</a> your lawn with a ¼-inch layer of compost will rejuvenate microorganism life in your soil. For applying compost to lawns try to use particle sizes less than 3/8-inches so the organic matter can more easily travel between grass blades and avoid smothering the grass.  Dry compost may amend your soil over a period of time, but if you want to speed the process look to <a href=\"http://extension.oregonstate.edu/douglas/mg/dcmg/aerated-compost-tea\" target=\"_blank\">compost tea</a>.</li>\r\n</ol>\r\n<ol start=\"3\">\r\n	<li><strong>Refrain from applying unneeded pesticides- </strong>I can’t represent the Midwest Pesticide Action Center without mentioning pesticides, right?!! Pesticides, which include fungicides, insecticides, and herbicides, are designed to kill living things.  So, it should not surprise you that these chemicals can seep into the soil and kill/harm living organisms, particularly vital microorganisms.  In addition to killing microorganisms, pesticides have altered their enzymatic activity and <a href=\"https://microbewiki.kenyon.edu/index.php/Effect_of_pesticides_and_biotransformation_of_pesticides_by_soil_microbes\" target=\"_blank\">inhibited their nitrogen fixing ability</a>.</li>\r\n</ol>','','','inherit','closed','open','','3148-revision-v1','','','2016-04-28 19:14:35','2016-04-28 19:14:35','',3148,'http://midwestpesticideaction.org/3148-revision-v1/',0,'revision','',0),(3153,2,'2016-04-28 19:36:56','2016-04-28 19:36:56','The most bio diverse ecosystem on earth does not reside in the Great Barrier Reef or the Amazon. NO, it lives right in your backyard! Just <a href=\"http://www.ext.colostate.edu/mg/gardennotes/212.html\" target=\"_blank\">one cup of soil</a> can contain 200 billion bacteria, 20 million protozoa, 100 thousand nematodes, and 50 thousand arthropods.\r\n\r\nThe soil in your yard holds amazing complexity and diversity that will make or break your natural lawn depending on how you care for it.  When <a href=\"http://www.nrcs.usda.gov/wps/portal/nrcs/detailfull/soils/health/biology/?cid=nrcs142p2_053868\" target=\"_blank\">treated and maintained well</a>, beneficial soil organisms thrive and improve turf health by decomposing organic matter, cycling nutrients, strengthening soil structure, and controlling diseases and pests.  When mishandled, you create a haven for unwanted weeds, grass killers, and disease.\r\n\r\nWhen managing turf, stop thinking how to achieve a “green” lawn, and start implementing strategies that best treat the whole living soil organism/web that provides for your grass. Vital soil microorganisms, nematodes, earthworms, and arthropods flourish in nutrient-rich, porous, and well-moisturized organic matter.\r\n\r\nIn line with our <a href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-NLC-Calendar.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Natural Lawn Care Calendar</a>, MPAC identifies three strategies to build vibrant and life-producing organic matter for May:\r\n<ol>\r\n	<li><strong>Avoid Compacted Soil by aerating it-</strong> No one likes to feel constricted; neither do the organisms living in your soil! <a href=\"http://www.ext.colostate.edu/mg/Gardennotes/215.html\" target=\"_blank\">Compacted soil restricts</a> air access, growth ability, and water uptake capacity of all living organisms including your turf’s roots.  Causes of soil compaction include heavy foot traffic, home construction, and/or heavy rain and sprinkler irrigation. Prevention techniques, such as building walkways to steer foot traffic away from turf, will improve living conditions, but every once in a while you will need to loosen the soil by <a href=\"http://www.ipm.ucdavis.edu/TOOLS/TURF/MAINTAIN/aeratehow.html\" target=\"_blank\">aerating it</a>.  A well aerated soil enables air, water, and nutrients to freely diffuse into your lawn.  The frequency you should aerate the soil depends on the lawn’s <a href=\"http://www.ipm.ucdavis.edu/TOOLS/TURF/MAINTAIN/aeratetime.html\" target=\"_blank\">soil type, foot traffic, and desirable appearance</a>. We recommend aeration at least once in May and September, but some soils (i.e. low traffic and sandy soils) may not even need treatment.</li>\r\n</ol>\r\n<ol start=\"2\">\r\n	<li><strong>Amend your soil with compost, humus, and worm castings- </strong>I always tell lawn care managers that healthy soil requires 16 essential nutrients and a loose, porous structure that boosts its water and nutrient carrying capacity. Simply applying synthetic fertilizers will not create this desirable soil environment, since they often provide only three of the essential nutrients (nitrogen, phosphorous, and potassium) and add no value to soil texture and drainage. When thoroughly mixed in to the whole soil structure, <a href=\"http://extension.colostate.edu/topic-areas/yard-garden/choosing-a-soil-amendment/\" target=\"_blank\">soil amendments</a> of <a href=\"http://extension.missouri.edu/p/g6956\" target=\"_blank\">compost</a>, humus, worm castings, and other materials contribute needed nutrients, while improving the soil’s physical properties of aeration and water retention, infiltration, and drainage. For turf, responsibilities for mixing these materials into the soil fall on the soil’s microorganisms.  <a href=\"http://www.dummies.com/how-to/content/how-to-topdress-lawns-with-compost.html\" target=\"_blank\">Top-dressing</a> your lawn with a ¼-inch layer of compost will rejuvenate microorganism life in your soil. For applying compost to lawns try to use particle sizes less than 3/8-inches so the organic matter can more easily travel between grass blades and avoid smothering the grass.  Dry compost may amend your soil over a period of time, but if you want to speed the process look to <a href=\"http://extension.oregonstate.edu/douglas/mg/dcmg/aerated-compost-tea\" target=\"_blank\">compost tea</a>.</li>\r\n</ol>\r\n<ol start=\"3\">\r\n	<li><strong>Refrain from applying unneeded pesticides- </strong>I can’t represent the Midwest Pesticide Action Center without mentioning pesticides, right?!! Pesticides, which include fungicides, insecticides, and herbicides, are designed to kill living things.  So, it should not surprise you that these chemicals can seep into the soil and kill/harm living organisms, particularly vital microorganisms.  In addition to killing microorganisms, pesticides have altered their enzymatic activity and <a href=\"https://microbewiki.kenyon.edu/index.php/Effect_of_pesticides_and_biotransformation_of_pesticides_by_soil_microbes\" target=\"_blank\">inhibited their nitrogen fixing ability</a>.</li>\r\n</ol>','Ignore your turf! Worry about the bottom-dwellers (literally)','','inherit','closed','open','','3148-revision-v1','','','2016-04-28 19:36:56','2016-04-28 19:36:56','',3148,'http://midwestpesticideaction.org/3148-revision-v1/',0,'revision','',0),(3154,2,'2016-04-28 19:41:01','2016-04-28 19:41:01','<h3>MPAC\'s Program and Communication Manager Ryan Anderson covers the amazing life and diversity found in the place you\'d least expect: your lawn\'s soil.</h3>\r\nThe most bio diverse ecosystem on earth does not reside in the Great Barrier Reef or the Amazon. NO, it lives right in your backyard! Just <a href=\"http://www.ext.colostate.edu/mg/gardennotes/212.html\" target=\"_blank\">one cup of soil</a> can contain 200 billion bacteria, 20 million protozoa, 100 thousand nematodes, and 50 thousand arthropods.\r\n\r\nThe soil in your yard holds amazing complexity and diversity that will make or break your natural lawn depending on how you care for it.  When <a href=\"http://www.nrcs.usda.gov/wps/portal/nrcs/detailfull/soils/health/biology/?cid=nrcs142p2_053868\" target=\"_blank\">treated and maintained well</a>, beneficial soil organisms thrive and improve turf health by decomposing organic matter, cycling nutrients, strengthening soil structure, and controlling diseases and pests.  When mishandled, you create a haven for unwanted weeds, grass killers, and disease.\r\n\r\nWhen managing turf, stop thinking how to achieve a “green” lawn, and start implementing strategies that best treat the whole living soil organism/web that provides for your grass. Vital soil microorganisms, nematodes, earthworms, and arthropods flourish in nutrient-rich, porous, and well-moisturized organic matter.\r\n\r\nIn line with our <a href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-NLC-Calendar.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Natural Lawn Care Calendar</a>, MPAC identifies three strategies to build vibrant and life-producing organic matter for May:\r\n<ol>\r\n	<li><strong>Avoid Compacted Soil by aerating it-</strong> No one likes to feel constricted; neither do the organisms living in your soil! <a href=\"http://www.ext.colostate.edu/mg/Gardennotes/215.html\" target=\"_blank\">Compacted soil restricts</a> air access, growth ability, and water uptake capacity of all living organisms including your turf’s roots.  Causes of soil compaction include heavy foot traffic, home construction, and/or heavy rain and sprinkler irrigation. Prevention techniques, such as building walkways to steer foot traffic away from turf, will improve living conditions, but every once in a while you will need to loosen the soil by <a href=\"http://www.ipm.ucdavis.edu/TOOLS/TURF/MAINTAIN/aeratehow.html\" target=\"_blank\">aerating it</a>.  A well aerated soil enables air, water, and nutrients to freely diffuse into your lawn.  The frequency you should aerate the soil depends on the lawn’s <a href=\"http://www.ipm.ucdavis.edu/TOOLS/TURF/MAINTAIN/aeratetime.html\" target=\"_blank\">soil type, foot traffic, and desirable appearance</a>. We recommend aeration at least once in May and September, but some soils (i.e. low traffic and sandy soils) may not even need treatment.</li>\r\n</ol>\r\n<ol start=\"2\">\r\n	<li><strong>Amend your soil with compost, humus, and worm castings- </strong>I always tell lawn care managers that healthy soil requires 16 essential nutrients and a loose, porous structure that boosts its water and nutrient carrying capacity. Simply applying synthetic fertilizers will not create this desirable soil environment, since they often provide only three of the essential nutrients (nitrogen, phosphorous, and potassium) and add no value to soil texture and drainage. When thoroughly mixed in to the whole soil structure, <a href=\"http://extension.colostate.edu/topic-areas/yard-garden/choosing-a-soil-amendment/\" target=\"_blank\">soil amendments</a> of <a href=\"http://extension.missouri.edu/p/g6956\" target=\"_blank\">compost</a>, humus, worm castings, and other materials contribute needed nutrients, while improving the soil’s physical properties of aeration and water retention, infiltration, and drainage. For turf, responsibilities for mixing these materials into the soil fall on the soil’s microorganisms.  <a href=\"http://www.dummies.com/how-to/content/how-to-topdress-lawns-with-compost.html\" target=\"_blank\">Top-dressing</a> your lawn with a ¼-inch layer of compost will rejuvenate microorganism life in your soil. For applying compost to lawns try to use particle sizes less than 3/8-inches so the organic matter can more easily travel between grass blades and avoid smothering the grass.  Dry compost may amend your soil over a period of time, but if you want to speed the process look to <a href=\"http://extension.oregonstate.edu/douglas/mg/dcmg/aerated-compost-tea\" target=\"_blank\">compost tea</a>.</li>\r\n</ol>\r\n<ol start=\"3\">\r\n	<li><strong>Refrain from applying unneeded pesticides- </strong>I can’t represent the Midwest Pesticide Action Center without mentioning pesticides, right?!! Pesticides, which include fungicides, insecticides, and herbicides, are designed to kill living things.  So, it should not surprise you that these chemicals can seep into the soil and kill/harm living organisms, particularly vital microorganisms.  In addition to killing microorganisms, pesticides have altered their enzymatic activity and <a href=\"https://microbewiki.kenyon.edu/index.php/Effect_of_pesticides_and_biotransformation_of_pesticides_by_soil_microbes\" target=\"_blank\">inhibited their nitrogen fixing ability</a>.</li>\r\n</ol>','Ignore your turf! Worry about the bottom-dwellers (literally)','','inherit','closed','open','','3148-revision-v1','','','2016-04-28 19:41:01','2016-04-28 19:41:01','',3148,'http://midwestpesticideaction.org/3148-revision-v1/',0,'revision','',0),(3155,2,'2016-04-28 19:43:58','2016-04-28 19:43:58','<h3>MPAC\'s Program and Communication Manager Ryan Anders</h3>\r\n<h3><img class=\"alignright wp-image-2143\" src=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/1620-x-1080-testing-soil-quality-soil-pH-values1.jpg\" alt=\"1620 x 1080 testing-soil-quality-soil-pH-values1\" width=\"261\" height=\"174\" />on covers the amazing life and diversity found in the place you\'d least expect: your lawn\'s soil.</h3>\r\nThe most bio diverse ecosystem on earth does not reside in the Great Barrier Reef or the Amazon. NO, it lives right in your backyard! Just <a href=\"http://www.ext.colostate.edu/mg/gardennotes/212.html\" target=\"_blank\">one cup of soil</a> can contain 200 billion bacteria, 20 million protozoa, 100 thousand nematodes, and 50 thousand arthropods.\r\n\r\nThe soil in your yard holds amazing complexity and diversity that will make or break your natural lawn depending on how you care for it.  When <a href=\"http://www.nrcs.usda.gov/wps/portal/nrcs/detailfull/soils/health/biology/?cid=nrcs142p2_053868\" target=\"_blank\">treated and maintained well</a>, beneficial soil organisms thrive and improve turf health by decomposing organic matter, cycling nutrients, strengthening soil structure, and controlling diseases and pests.  When mishandled, you create a haven for unwanted weeds, grass killers, and disease.\r\n\r\nWhen managing turf, stop thinking how to achieve a “green” lawn, and start implementing strategies that best treat the whole living soil organism/web that provides for your grass. Vital soil microorganisms, nematodes, earthworms, and arthropods flourish in nutrient-rich, porous, and well-moisturized organic matter.\r\n\r\nIn line with our <a href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-NLC-Calendar.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Natural Lawn Care Calendar</a>, MPAC identifies three strategies to build vibrant and life-producing organic matter for May:\r\n<ol>\r\n	<li><strong>Avoid Compacted Soil by aerating it-</strong> No one likes to feel constricted; neither do the organisms living in your soil! <a href=\"http://www.ext.colostate.edu/mg/Gardennotes/215.html\" target=\"_blank\">Compacted soil restricts</a> air access, growth ability, and water uptake capacity of all living organisms including your turf’s roots.  Causes of soil compaction include heavy foot traffic, home construction, and/or heavy rain and sprinkler irrigation. Prevention techniques, such as building walkways to steer foot traffic away from turf, will improve living conditions, but every once in a while you will need to loosen the soil by <a href=\"http://www.ipm.ucdavis.edu/TOOLS/TURF/MAINTAIN/aeratehow.html\" target=\"_blank\">aerating it</a>.  A well aerated soil enables air, water, and nutrients to freely diffuse into your lawn.  The frequency you should aerate the soil depends on the lawn’s <a href=\"http://www.ipm.ucdavis.edu/TOOLS/TURF/MAINTAIN/aeratetime.html\" target=\"_blank\">soil type, foot traffic, and desirable appearance</a>. We recommend aeration at least once in May and September, but some soils (i.e. low traffic and sandy soils) may not even need treatment.</li>\r\n</ol>\r\n<ol start=\"2\">\r\n	<li><strong>Amend your soil with compost, humus, and worm castings- </strong>I always tell lawn care managers that healthy soil requires 16 essential nutrients and a loose, porous structure that boosts its water and nutrient carrying capacity. Simply applying synthetic fertilizers will not create this desirable soil environment, since they often provide only three of the essential nutrients (nitrogen, phosphorous, and potassium) and add no value to soil texture and drainage. When thoroughly mixed in to the whole soil structure, <a href=\"http://extension.colostate.edu/topic-areas/yard-garden/choosing-a-soil-amendment/\" target=\"_blank\">soil amendments</a> of <a href=\"http://extension.missouri.edu/p/g6956\" target=\"_blank\">compost</a>, humus, worm castings, and other materials contribute needed nutrients, while improving the soil’s physical properties of aeration and water retention, infiltration, and drainage. For turf, responsibilities for mixing these materials into the soil fall on the soil’s microorganisms.  <a href=\"http://www.dummies.com/how-to/content/how-to-topdress-lawns-with-compost.html\" target=\"_blank\">Top-dressing</a> your lawn with a ¼-inch layer of compost will rejuvenate microorganism life in your soil. For applying compost to lawns try to use particle sizes less than 3/8-inches so the organic matter can more easily travel between grass blades and avoid smothering the grass.  Dry compost may amend your soil over a period of time, but if you want to speed the process look to <a href=\"http://extension.oregonstate.edu/douglas/mg/dcmg/aerated-compost-tea\" target=\"_blank\">compost tea</a>.</li>\r\n</ol>\r\n<ol start=\"3\">\r\n	<li><strong>Refrain from applying unneeded pesticides- </strong>I can’t represent the Midwest Pesticide Action Center without mentioning pesticides, right?!! Pesticides, which include fungicides, insecticides, and herbicides, are designed to kill living things.  So, it should not surprise you that these chemicals can seep into the soil and kill/harm living organisms, particularly vital microorganisms.  In addition to killing microorganisms, pesticides have altered their enzymatic activity and <a href=\"https://microbewiki.kenyon.edu/index.php/Effect_of_pesticides_and_biotransformation_of_pesticides_by_soil_microbes\" target=\"_blank\">inhibited their nitrogen fixing ability</a>.</li>\r\n</ol>','Ignore your turf! Worry about the bottom-dwellers (literally)','','inherit','closed','open','','3148-revision-v1','','','2016-04-28 19:43:58','2016-04-28 19:43:58','',3148,'http://midwestpesticideaction.org/3148-revision-v1/',0,'revision','',0),(3156,2,'2016-04-28 19:45:00','2016-04-28 19:45:00','<h3></h3>\r\n<h3><img class=\"alignright wp-image-2143 size-medium\" src=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/1620-x-1080-testing-soil-quality-soil-pH-values1-300x200.jpg\" alt=\"1620 x 1080 testing-soil-quality-soil-pH-values1\" width=\"300\" height=\"200\" />MPAC\'s Program and Communication Manager Ryan Anderson covers the amazing life and diversity found in the place you\'d least expect: your lawn\'s soil.</h3>\r\nThe most bio diverse ecosystem on earth does not reside in the Great Barrier Reef or the Amazon. NO, it lives right in your backyard! Just <a href=\"http://www.ext.colostate.edu/mg/gardennotes/212.html\" target=\"_blank\">one cup of soil</a> can contain 200 billion bacteria, 20 million protozoa, 100 thousand nematodes, and 50 thousand arthropods.\r\n\r\nThe soil in your yard holds amazing complexity and diversity that will make or break your natural lawn depending on how you care for it.  When <a href=\"http://www.nrcs.usda.gov/wps/portal/nrcs/detailfull/soils/health/biology/?cid=nrcs142p2_053868\" target=\"_blank\">treated and maintained well</a>, beneficial soil organisms thrive and improve turf health by decomposing organic matter, cycling nutrients, strengthening soil structure, and controlling diseases and pests.  When mishandled, you create a haven for unwanted weeds, grass killers, and disease.\r\n\r\nWhen managing turf, stop thinking how to achieve a “green” lawn, and start implementing strategies that best treat the whole living soil organism/web that provides for your grass. Vital soil microorganisms, nematodes, earthworms, and arthropods flourish in nutrient-rich, porous, and well-moisturized organic matter.\r\n\r\nIn line with our <a href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-NLC-Calendar.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Natural Lawn Care Calendar</a>, MPAC identifies three strategies to build vibrant and life-producing organic matter for May:\r\n<ol>\r\n	<li><strong>Avoid Compacted Soil by aerating it-</strong> No one likes to feel constricted; neither do the organisms living in your soil! <a href=\"http://www.ext.colostate.edu/mg/Gardennotes/215.html\" target=\"_blank\">Compacted soil restricts</a> air access, growth ability, and water uptake capacity of all living organisms including your turf’s roots.  Causes of soil compaction include heavy foot traffic, home construction, and/or heavy rain and sprinkler irrigation. Prevention techniques, such as building walkways to steer foot traffic away from turf, will improve living conditions, but every once in a while you will need to loosen the soil by <a href=\"http://www.ipm.ucdavis.edu/TOOLS/TURF/MAINTAIN/aeratehow.html\" target=\"_blank\">aerating it</a>.  A well aerated soil enables air, water, and nutrients to freely diffuse into your lawn.  The frequency you should aerate the soil depends on the lawn’s <a href=\"http://www.ipm.ucdavis.edu/TOOLS/TURF/MAINTAIN/aeratetime.html\" target=\"_blank\">soil type, foot traffic, and desirable appearance</a>. We recommend aeration at least once in May and September, but some soils (i.e. low traffic and sandy soils) may not even need treatment.</li>\r\n</ol>\r\n<ol start=\"2\">\r\n	<li><strong>Amend your soil with compost, humus, and worm castings- </strong>I always tell lawn care managers that healthy soil requires 16 essential nutrients and a loose, porous structure that boosts its water and nutrient carrying capacity. Simply applying synthetic fertilizers will not create this desirable soil environment, since they often provide only three of the essential nutrients (nitrogen, phosphorous, and potassium) and add no value to soil texture and drainage. When thoroughly mixed in to the whole soil structure, <a href=\"http://extension.colostate.edu/topic-areas/yard-garden/choosing-a-soil-amendment/\" target=\"_blank\">soil amendments</a> of <a href=\"http://extension.missouri.edu/p/g6956\" target=\"_blank\">compost</a>, humus, worm castings, and other materials contribute needed nutrients, while improving the soil’s physical properties of aeration and water retention, infiltration, and drainage. For turf, responsibilities for mixing these materials into the soil fall on the soil’s microorganisms.  <a href=\"http://www.dummies.com/how-to/content/how-to-topdress-lawns-with-compost.html\" target=\"_blank\">Top-dressing</a> your lawn with a ¼-inch layer of compost will rejuvenate microorganism life in your soil. For applying compost to lawns try to use particle sizes less than 3/8-inches so the organic matter can more easily travel between grass blades and avoid smothering the grass.  Dry compost may amend your soil over a period of time, but if you want to speed the process look to <a href=\"http://extension.oregonstate.edu/douglas/mg/dcmg/aerated-compost-tea\" target=\"_blank\">compost tea</a>.</li>\r\n</ol>\r\n<ol start=\"3\">\r\n	<li><strong>Refrain from applying unneeded pesticides- </strong>I can’t represent the Midwest Pesticide Action Center without mentioning pesticides, right?!! Pesticides, which include fungicides, insecticides, and herbicides, are designed to kill living things.  So, it should not surprise you that these chemicals can seep into the soil and kill/harm living organisms, particularly vital microorganisms.  In addition to killing microorganisms, pesticides have altered their enzymatic activity and <a href=\"https://microbewiki.kenyon.edu/index.php/Effect_of_pesticides_and_biotransformation_of_pesticides_by_soil_microbes\" target=\"_blank\">inhibited their nitrogen fixing ability</a>.</li>\r\n</ol>','Ignore your turf! Worry about the bottom-dwellers (literally)','','inherit','closed','open','','3148-revision-v1','','','2016-04-28 19:45:00','2016-04-28 19:45:00','',3148,'http://midwestpesticideaction.org/3148-revision-v1/',0,'revision','',0),(3158,2,'2016-05-03 15:13:18','2016-05-03 15:13:18','<h3></h3>\r\n<h3><img class=\"alignright wp-image-2143 size-medium\" src=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/1620-x-1080-testing-soil-quality-soil-pH-values1-300x200.jpg\" alt=\"1620 x 1080 testing-soil-quality-soil-pH-values1\" width=\"300\" height=\"200\" />MPAC\'s Program and Communication Manager Ryan Anderson covers the amazing life and diversity found in the place you\'d least expect: your lawn\'s soil.</h3>\r\nThe most bio diverse ecosystem on earth does not reside in the Great Barrier Reef or the Amazon. NO, it lives right in your backyard! Just <a href=\"http://www.ext.colostate.edu/mg/gardennotes/212.html\" target=\"_blank\">one cup of soil</a> can contain 200 billion bacteria, 20 million protozoa, 100 thousand nematodes, and 50 thousand arthropods.\r\n\r\nThe soil in your yard holds amazing complexity and diversity that will make or break your natural lawn depending on how you care for it.  When <a href=\"http://www.nrcs.usda.gov/wps/portal/nrcs/detailfull/soils/health/biology/?cid=nrcs142p2_053868\" target=\"_blank\">treated and maintained well</a>, beneficial soil organisms thrive and improve turf health by decomposing organic matter, cycling nutrients, strengthening soil structure, and controlling diseases and pests.  When mishandled, you create a haven for unwanted weeds, grass killers, and disease.\r\n\r\nWhen managing turf, stop thinking how to achieve a “green” lawn, and start implementing strategies that best treat the whole living soil organism/web that provides for your grass. Vital soil microorganisms, nematodes, earthworms, and arthropods flourish in nutrient-rich, porous, and well-moisturized organic matter.\r\n\r\nIn line with our <a href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-NLC-Calendar.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Natural Lawn Care Calendar</a>, MPAC identifies three strategies to build vibrant and life-producing organic matter for May:\r\n<ol>\r\n	<li><strong>Avoid compacted soil by aerating it-</strong> No one likes to feel constricted; neither do the organisms living in your soil! <a href=\"http://www.ext.colostate.edu/mg/Gardennotes/215.html\" target=\"_blank\">Compacted soil restricts</a> air access, growth ability, and water uptake capacity of all living organisms including your turf’s roots.  Causes of soil compaction include heavy foot traffic, home construction, and/or heavy rain and sprinkler irrigation. Prevention techniques, such as building walkways to steer foot traffic away from turf, will improve living conditions, but every once in a while you will need to loosen the soil by <a href=\"http://www.ipm.ucdavis.edu/TOOLS/TURF/MAINTAIN/aeratehow.html\" target=\"_blank\">aerating it</a>.  A well aerated soil enables air, water, and nutrients to freely diffuse into your lawn.  The frequency you should aerate the soil depends on the lawn’s <a href=\"http://www.ipm.ucdavis.edu/TOOLS/TURF/MAINTAIN/aeratetime.html\" target=\"_blank\">soil type, foot traffic, and desirable appearance</a>. We recommend aeration at least once in May and September, but some soils (i.e. low traffic and sandy soils) may not even need treatment.</li>\r\n</ol>\r\n<ol start=\"2\">\r\n	<li><strong>Amend your soil with compost, humus, and worm castings- </strong>I always tell lawn care managers that healthy soil requires 16 essential nutrients and a loose, porous structure that boosts its water and nutrient carrying capacity. Simply applying synthetic fertilizers will not create this desirable soil environment, since they often provide only three of the essential nutrients (nitrogen, phosphorous, and potassium) and add no value to soil texture and drainage. When thoroughly mixed in to the whole soil structure, <a href=\"http://extension.colostate.edu/topic-areas/yard-garden/choosing-a-soil-amendment/\" target=\"_blank\">soil amendments</a> of <a href=\"http://extension.missouri.edu/p/g6956\" target=\"_blank\">compost</a>, humus, worm castings, and other materials contribute needed nutrients, while improving the soil’s physical properties of aeration and water retention, infiltration, and drainage. For turf, responsibilities for mixing these materials into the soil fall on the soil’s microorganisms.  <a href=\"http://www.dummies.com/how-to/content/how-to-topdress-lawns-with-compost.html\" target=\"_blank\">Top-dressing</a> your lawn with a ¼-inch layer of compost will rejuvenate microorganism life in your soil. For applying compost to lawns try to use particle sizes less than 3/8-inches so the organic matter can more easily travel between grass blades and avoid smothering the grass.  Dry compost may amend your soil over a period of time, but if you want to speed the process look to <a href=\"http://extension.oregonstate.edu/douglas/mg/dcmg/aerated-compost-tea\" target=\"_blank\">compost tea</a>.</li>\r\n</ol>\r\n<ol start=\"3\">\r\n	<li><strong>Refrain from applying unneeded pesticides- </strong>I can’t represent the Midwest Pesticide Action Center without mentioning pesticides, right?!! Pesticides, which include fungicides, insecticides, and herbicides, are designed to kill living things.  So, it should not surprise you that these chemicals can seep into the soil and kill/harm living organisms, particularly vital microorganisms.  In addition to killing microorganisms, pesticides have altered their enzymatic activity and <a href=\"https://microbewiki.kenyon.edu/index.php/Effect_of_pesticides_and_biotransformation_of_pesticides_by_soil_microbes\" target=\"_blank\">inhibited their nitrogen fixing ability</a>.</li>\r\n</ol>','Ignore your turf! Worry about the bottom-dwellers (literally)','','inherit','closed','open','','3148-revision-v1','','','2016-05-03 15:13:18','2016-05-03 15:13:18','',3148,'http://midwestpesticideaction.org/3148-revision-v1/',0,'revision','',0),(3159,2,'2016-05-04 15:50:29','2016-05-04 15:50:29','On <a href=\"http://patch.com/illinois/elmhurst/green-garden-fair-offers-healthy-food-growing-solutions-0\" target=\"_blank\">Saturday, May 21st</a> MPAC will educate community members in Elmhurst about strategies to reduce chemical use in their lawns and gardens alongside the local gardening business <a href=\"https://sweethomeorganics.wordpress.com/\" target=\"_blank\">Sweet Home Organics</a>. Sweet Home Organics shares similar values to MPAC\'s mission by educating the community on healthy and eco-friendly food growing strategies through selling seedlings free of pesticides, synthetic fertilizers, and genetically-modified seeds. Learn more about Sweet Home Organics and MPAC\'s efforts to advance its <a href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/midwest-grows-green/community-engagement/take-the-pledge/\" target=\"_blank\">MGG Pledge</a> for the Elmhurst Green Garden Fair <a href=\"http://patch.com/illinois/elmhurst/green-garden-fair-offers-healthy-food-growing-solutions-0\" target=\"_blank\">here</a>.','Green Garden Fair Offers Healthy Food Growing Solutions','','publish','closed','open','','green-garden-fair-offers-healthy-food-growing-solutions','','\nhttp://midwestpesticideaction.org/midwest-grows-green/community-engagement/take-the-pledge/','2016-05-04 15:50:29','2016-05-04 15:50:29','',0,'http://midwestpesticideaction.org/?p=3159',0,'post','',0),(3160,2,'2016-05-04 15:46:10','2016-05-04 15:46:10','','Sweet Home Organics','','inherit','closed','open','','olympus-digital-camera','','','2016-05-04 15:46:10','2016-05-04 15:46:10','',3159,'http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/P5022166-Cropped-for-church.jpg',0,'attachment','image/jpeg',0),(3161,2,'2016-05-04 15:50:29','2016-05-04 15:50:29','On <a href=\"http://patch.com/illinois/elmhurst/green-garden-fair-offers-healthy-food-growing-solutions-0\" target=\"_blank\">Saturday, May 21st</a> MPAC will educate community members in Elmhurst about strategies to reduce chemical use in their lawns and gardens alongside the local gardening business <a href=\"https://sweethomeorganics.wordpress.com/\" target=\"_blank\">Sweet Home Organics</a>. Sweet Home Organics shares similar values to MPAC\'s mission by educating the community on healthy and eco-friendly food growing strategies through selling seedlings free of pesticides, synthetic fertilizers, and genetically-modified seeds. Learn more about Sweet Home Organics and MPAC\'s efforts to advance its <a href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/midwest-grows-green/community-engagement/take-the-pledge/\" target=\"_blank\">MGG Pledge</a> for the Elmhurst Green Garden Fair <a href=\"http://patch.com/illinois/elmhurst/green-garden-fair-offers-healthy-food-growing-solutions-0\" target=\"_blank\">here</a>.','Green Garden Fair Offers Healthy Food Growing Solutions','','inherit','closed','open','','3159-revision-v1','','','2016-05-04 15:50:29','2016-05-04 15:50:29','',3159,'http://midwestpesticideaction.org/3159-revision-v1/',0,'revision','',0),(3162,2,'2016-05-10 16:28:48','2016-05-10 16:28:48','<a href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/MWGG-Web-page-cover-photo5.jpg\"><img class=\"alignleft  wp-image-2464\" src=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/MWGG-Web-page-cover-photo5.jpg\" alt=\"MWGG Web page cover photo\" width=\"934\" height=\"301\" /></a>\r\n<h1></h1>\r\n<h1></h1>\r\n<h1></h1>\r\n<h1></h1>\r\n<h1></h1>\r\n<h1></h1>\r\n<h1></h1>\r\n<h1></h1>\r\n&nbsp;\r\n<h1>Midwest Grows Green</h1>\r\n<em>Three programs, one brand, one goal.</em>\r\n\r\nMidwest Grows Green (MGG) represents all of MPAC’s community-based lawn and landscape care initiatives, which are identified by our distinctive orange MGG stamp and unified by a single message – protect people, pets and the environment by practicing natural lawn care. Three distinct programs (point-of-purchase, pesticide-free parks, and community engagement) comprise MGG, which communities can adopt individually or in any combination. We designed MGG to educate the community on natural lawn care in order to reduce the amount of synthetic herbicides, insecticides, and fertilizers used. Lawn and gardening chemicals can harm people, pets, wildlife, and waterways. By presenting safer alternative practices and products, Midwest Grows Green aims to reduce the use and harmful effects of outdoor pesticides.\r\n\r\n[one_third]\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/midwest-grows-green/point-of-purchase/\"><img class=\"alignnone wp-image-2365\" src=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/MWGG-Tag-V5-300x187.jpg\" alt=\"MWGG Tag V5\" width=\"250\" height=\"156\" /></a>\r\n<h3>Point-of-Purchase Program</h3>\r\nThis partnership with local retailers connects homeowners to eco-friendly products at the point-of-purchase to empower them to reduce their use of harmful pesticides. <a class=\"more\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/midwest-grows-green/point-of-purchase/\">Learn More</a>\r\n\r\n[/one_third]\r\n\r\n[one_third]\r\n<a href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/midwest-grows-green/pesticide-free-parks/\"><img class=\"alignnone wp-image-2444\" src=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/09/evanston-park-300x187.jpg\" alt=\"evanston park\" width=\"250\" height=\"156\" /></a>\r\n<h3>Pesticide-Free Parks</h3>\r\nBring a pesticide-free park to your community to protect the environment and create safer places for people and pets to play. <a class=\"more\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/midwest-grows-green/pesticide-free-parks/\">Learn More</a>\r\n\r\n[/one_third]\r\n\r\n[one_third]\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/midwest-grows-green/community-engagement/\"><img class=\"alignnone wp-image-2449\" src=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/09/Keep-on-the-Grass-Sign-in-Use-Cropped-300x187.jpg\" alt=\"Keep on the Grass Sign in Use Cropped\" width=\"250\" height=\"156\" /></a>\r\n<h3>Community Engagement</h3>\r\nMPAC can help you engage your community on natural lawn care practices to keep your yards beautiful without the use of harmful pesticides. <a class=\"more\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/midwest-grows-green/community-engagement/\">Learn More</a>\r\n\r\n[/one_third]\r\n<h2>Why are pesticides and artificial fertilizers harmful?</h2>\r\n<em>Many commonly-used pesticides are harmful to people and the environment. Here are some facts about the harmful effects of commonly-sold products:</em>\r\n<p style=\"padding-left: 30px;\"><a href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/Boy-w-Dog-and-Sprinkler-resizedcropped.jpg\"><img class=\"alignright wp-image-2183 \" src=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/Boy-w-Dog-and-Sprinkler-resizedcropped-300x134.jpg\" alt=\"Boy w Dog and Sprinkler [resized,cropped]\" width=\"331\" height=\"148\" /></a>1. <strong>Human Health: </strong> Research has linked insecticides, herbicides, and other pesticides to cancer, as well as asthma, birth defects, and neurological, behavioral, reproductive, hormonal, and immune system disorders. The International Agency for Research on Cancer classifies roughly 40 chemicals serving as active ingredients in household pesticides as \"known, probable, or possible human carcinogens.\"</p>\r\n<p style=\"padding-left: 30px;\">2. <strong>Water: </strong>A U.S. Geological Survey report found pesticides in 96% of all fish, 100% of all surface waters, and 33% of major aquifers studied. We know that lawns and gardens contribute to this widespread pollution as urban watersheds have higher rates of pesticide contamination than any other type of watershed, including agricultural. Keeping pesticides out of our waterways is important as they degrade water quality. A more recent USGS <a href=\"http://toxics.usgs.gov/highlights/2015-08-18-national_neonics.html\">study</a> found evidence of the insecticide neonicotinoid, commonly associated with the reduction in honey bee populations, in over 50% of streams tested.</p>\r\n<p style=\"padding-left: 30px;\"><a href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/1322-x-992-Drains-to-Lake-grate-e1385070956509.jpg\"><img class=\"alignleft wp-image-1124\" src=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/1322-x-992-Drains-to-Lake-grate-e1385070956509-300x255.jpg\" alt=\"Drains to Lake grate\" width=\"231\" height=\"196\" /></a>3. <strong>Aquatic life: </strong>Conventional synthetic and fast-release fertilizers quickly wash into waterways, degrading water quality and creating “dead zones” by promoting excessive growth of aquatic vegetation, which steals the oxygen in the water from other organisms.</p>\r\n<p style=\"padding-left: 30px;\">4. <strong>Wildlife:  </strong>Pesticides are toxic chemicals designed to kill. The killing power of most of these toxins is not specific and will often kill or injure non-target species. Birds, amphibians, and beneficial pollinators such as honey bees are affected. Dozens of studies have linked the use of pesticides such as neonicotinoids to declining bee populations, which pollinate many essential food crops.</p>\r\n<p style=\"padding-left: 30px;\">5. <strong>Children: </strong>A study by the American Academy of Pediatrics raised concerns about the link between pesticide exposure and childhood cancer, impaired neurological development, asthma, and endocrine disruption. The Academy stated that “the most comprehensive reviews of the existing literature implicate an association of pesticides with leukemia and brain tumors.” Studies also suggest that ADHD and other neurological disorders may be related to a disruption in biological <a id=\"subheader2\"></a>systems caused by some pesticides.</p>\r\n\r\n<h2>What are eco-friendly alternatives?</h2>\r\nNatural lawn care is a method of maintenance designed to build up the health of your lawn—making it naturally more resistant to weeds, insects, and diseases—without the use of synthetic chemicals or fertilizers. It is an alternative to conventional practices which depend on the application of synthetic chemicals, often in much larger quantities than needed. The excess is often washed away as runoff into water sources or tracked indoors by people or pets.\r\n\r\nThe basics of natural lawn care include:<a href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/1620-x-1080-testing-soil-quality-soil-pH-values1.jpg\"><img class=\"alignright wp-image-2143 \" src=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/1620-x-1080-testing-soil-quality-soil-pH-values1-300x200.jpg\" alt=\"1620 x 1080 testing-soil-quality-soil-pH-values1\" width=\"318\" height=\"212\" /></a>\r\n<ol>\r\n	<li>Mowing high to shade out weeds.</li>\r\n	<li>Choosing the right species with characteristics designed to adapt to the current climate and conditions of the planting area.</li>\r\n	<li>Using natural fertilizers for slower nutrient release, which feeds the soil and helps prevent runoff.</li>\r\n	<li>Watering correctly at 1 inch per week to encourage strong deep roots and discourages pests.</li>\r\n</ol>\r\nMPAC defines \"eco-friendly products\" as organic, non-synthetic, or least-toxic alternatives to conventional lawn care products. These products are healthier for people, pets, and the environment. Unlike many conventional lawn care products, they are free of harmful substances such as known carcinogens, reproductive or developmental toxins, and endocrine disruptors which compromise human health. They are also free of ingredients found in conventional products that degrade water quality and are highly toxic to birds, fish, wildlife, and bees. Eco-friendly alternative products, along with sustainable lawn and landscape management practices, can be incorporated as integral parts of natural lawn care.  Our <a href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/10/Eco-Friendly-Catalog-for-Consumers.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Eco-Friendly Lawn Care Catalog</a> lists eco-friendly lawn products.\r\n\r\nFor more information on each Midwest Grows Green program, see: <a href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/midwest-grows-green/community-engagement/\">Community Engagement</a>, <a href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/midwest-grows-green/pesticide-free-parks/\">Pesticide-Free Parks</a>, and <a href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/midwest-grows-green/point-of-purchase/\">Point-of-Purchase Retailer Program</a>\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/midwest-grows-green/community-engagement/take-the-pledge/\">Take the Pledge</a> to add your name to our community of <a href=\"http://bit.ly/MGGplmap\" target=\"_blank\">engaged citizen activists</a> and help further natural lawn care practices at your home, in your community, and Midwest-wide.\r\n<h2>Additional Resources</h2>\r\n<a href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/09/Midwest_Grows_Green_Guide_Final.pdf\">Guide to Growing an Environmentally-Friendly Lawn and Garden</a>: Use this comprehensive guide to learn how to incorporate natural lawn care practices in your own lawn and garden. Find out how natural lawn care can reduce your contribution to climate change and water pollution, help your lawn and garden adapt to a changing environment, and produce beautiful outdoor spaces.\r\n\r\nMore: <a href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/MPAC-Natural-Lawn-Care-for-Homeowners.pdf\">Natural Lawn Care for Homeowners</a>, <a href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-NLC-Calendar.pdf\">Natural Lawn Care Calendar</a>, <a href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/MPAC-Pets-and-Pesticides-TU.pdf\">Pets and Pesticides</a>, <a href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/Read-Your-Weeds.pdf\">Read Your Weeds</a>, <a href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-Products-for-Your-Natural-Lawn1.pdf\">Products for Your Natural Lawn</a>, <a href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/WOY_MPAC-Midwest-Natural-Lawn-Care-Companies2.pdf\">Midwest Natural Lawn Care Companies</a>','Midwest Grows Green','','inherit','closed','open','','2275-revision-v1','','','2016-05-10 16:28:48','2016-05-10 16:28:48','',2275,'http://midwestpesticideaction.org/2275-revision-v1/',0,'revision','',0),(3163,2,'2016-05-10 16:29:56','2016-05-10 16:29:56','<h1>Midwest Grows Green: Community Engagement<a href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/midwest-grows-green/community-engagement/take-the-pledge/\" target=\"_blank\"><img class=\"alignright wp-image-3145 size-full\" src=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/MGG_KeepOnGrass_sign2-e1461610956324.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"176\" height=\"264\" /></a></h1>\r\nMPAC created the Midwest Grows Green Community Engagement program to help homeowners and other land managers understand the impacts of their practices and learn how to make them more sustainable.  We developed several resources to help concerned residents educate and engage their communities on natural lawn care. We work with community activists and organizers to create a campaign that encourages the adoption of natural lawn care practices to reduce the use of synthetic pesticides and fertilizers.  With community input, MPAC develops customized resources and events promoting natural lawn care that reflect specific community concerns.\r\n<h3 style=\"padding-left: 30px;\">Why is it important to engage your community on natural lawn care?</h3>\r\n<p style=\"padding-left: 30px;\">As communities expand, land-use turns into lawns. Unfortunately, the use of synthetic lawn care products leads to the pollution of our waterways through runoff and negative impacts on the health of people, pets, and wildlife. Many people do not realize that homeowners apply up to 10 times more chemical pesticides to lawn turf per acre than farmers use on crops. In fact, lawn care pesticides are the pesticides most often detected in urban watersheds. This is because polluted runoff from lawns flow into storm water drains which bypass water treatment facilities and empty out directly into rivers, lakes, and streams. In addition, climate change will likely magnify these negative impacts in the Midwest, with longer growing seasons prompting the use of more lawn care products and increasing storm frequency and intensity resulting in more flooding and water runoff.</p>\r\n<p style=\"padding-left: 30px;\"><a href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/09/pesticide_lawn_cropped.jpg\"><img class=\"alignleft wp-image-2649 \" src=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/09/pesticide_lawn_cropped-300x262.jpg\" alt=\"pesticide_lawn_cropped\" width=\"276\" height=\"241\" /></a>In addition to water quality issues, conventional lawn care creates many environmental stressors and health impacts. For example:</p>\r\n\r\n<ol>\r\n<ul>\r\n	<li><i class=\"fa fa-leaf\"></i>Fifty percent of water used for lawns is wasted, and demand for water is expected to increase with growing population and greater drought occurrences.</li>\r\n	<li><i class=\"fa fa-leaf\"></i>Of the 30 pesticides most commonly used on lawns and landscapes, 16 are toxic to birds, 24 are toxic to fish and other aquatic organisms, 11 are toxic to bees, and 11 are endocrine disruptors.</li>\r\n	<li><i class=\"fa fa-leaf\"></i>Research has linked pesticides to cancer, asthma, birth defects and neurological, behavioral, reproductive, hormonal, and immune system disorders in humans. Infants and children are most vulnerable to the health risks associated with pesticide use.</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n</ol>\r\n<h2>Resources</h2>\r\nHere are some examples of resources which MPAC has created for community engagement:\r\n\r\n[one_half]\r\n<h4><strong>Take the MGG Pledge!\r\n</strong></h4>\r\n<a href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/midwest-grows-green/community-engagement/take-the-pledge/\" target=\"_blank\">Join our network </a>of <a href=\"http://bit.ly/MGGplmap\" target=\"_blank\">engaged citizen activists</a> prepared to eliminate synthetic chemical use on your own lawn/garden and at all locations where children, pets, and wildlife live and play! Your commitment today gives you access to natural lawn care support through our monthly e-newsletter and adds your name to the larger MGG effort as we recruit more pesticide-free parks, point-of-purchase retailers and pledges.  We\'ll send you a sign for any donation of $10+.\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_2666\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"239\"]<a href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/midwest-grows-green/community-engagement/take-the-pledge/\" target=\"_blank\"><img class=\"wp-image-2666 size-medium\" src=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/09/Pledge_Generic_cropped_image-239x300.jpg\" alt=\"Pledge_Generic_cropped_image\" width=\"239\" height=\"300\" /></a> Click to take the Pledge![/caption]\r\n\r\n[/one_half]\r\n\r\n[one_half]\r\n<h4><strong>Tips on Keeping our Yards Green &amp; Waters Clean</strong></h4>\r\nThis natural lawn care pamphlet can be customized for community needs. It gives tips on how to reduce water pollution while maintaining beautiful outdoor spaces that are safe for people and pets to enjoy.\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_2309\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"376\"]<a href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/09/MWGG_Brochure_final.pdf\" target=\"_blank\"><img class=\"wp-image-2309\" src=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/MWGG-Tips-on-Keeping-Yards-Green-and-Waters-Clean-300x231.jpg\" alt=\"MWGG-Tips-on-Keeping-Yards-Green-and-Waters-Clean\" width=\"376\" height=\"289\" /></a> Click to view the pamphlet.[/caption]\r\n\r\n[/one_half]\r\n\r\n<strong>For more information about this and other MGG programs, contact Ryan Anderson at <a href=\"mailto:randerson@pesticideaction.org\">randerson@pesticideaction.org</a> and “Midwest Grows Green” as the subject.  Or, call us at (773) 878-7378.</strong>\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/midwest-grows-green/\">Return</a> to the Midwest Grows Green homepage to learn more about how reducing the use of pesticides by adopting natural lawn care can benefit the health of your community and the environment.','Midwest Grows Green: Community Engagement','','inherit','closed','open','','2495-revision-v1','','','2016-05-10 16:29:56','2016-05-10 16:29:56','',2495,'http://midwestpesticideaction.org/2495-revision-v1/',0,'revision','',0),(3164,2,'2016-05-10 16:30:46','2016-05-10 16:30:46','<h1><a href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/takethepledge_banner.jpg\"><img class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-3039\" src=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/takethepledge_banner.jpg\" alt=\"takethepledge_banner\" width=\"2084\" height=\"730\" /></a></h1>\r\nMore and more, MPAC receives your concerns about reducing the use of potentially harmful gardening and lawn care chemicals in our lawns, parks, and other public places. We want to turn your concerns into action by creating a community of informed citizens ready to organize and advocate for more natural lawn care practices at home and Midwest-wide.\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/MWGG_Logo.png\"><img class=\"alignright wp-image-2279 size-thumbnail\" src=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/MWGG_Logo-150x150.png\" alt=\"MWGG_Logo\" width=\"150\" height=\"150\" /></a>\r\n\r\nBut we need your help! By taking this Midwest Grows Green (MGG) pledge, you join an online, engaged network of citizen activists prepared to eliminate synthetic chemical use on your own lawn and/or garden and at all locations where children, pets, and wildlife live and play. Will you join us?\r\n\r\nYour commitment today gives you access to natural lawn care resources, advocacy support, and event updates from our monthly newsletter and adds your name to the larger MGG effort as we recruit more\r\npesticide-free parks, point-of-purchase retailers, and <a href=\"http://bit.ly/MGGplmap\" target=\"_blank\">pledges</a>.\r\n<h2 class=\"pledge-heading\">I am ready to take the pledge to reduce the use of harmful lawn and garden chemicals!</h2>\r\n<ul>\r\n	<li><i class=\"fa fa-check-square-o  fa-2x\"></i>I pledge to eliminate the use of herbicides such as glyphosate (Round Up), 2,4 D, and/or “weed and feed” products on my lawn and in my garden.</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n<ul>\r\n	<li><i class=\"fa fa-check-square-o  fa-2x\"></i>I pledge to adopt one or more of the following natural lawn care practices:\r\n<ul class=\"pledge-nest\">\r\n	<li>Mow high: I will mow my grass to no less than 3 inches.</li>\r\n	<li>Water Properly: I will water my lawn with no more than 1 inch per week.</li>\r\n	<li>Fertilize organically: I will use only naturally derived organic fertilizers on my lawn and garden such as compost, compost tea, alfalfa meal, etc.</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n<!-- Begin MailChimp Signup Form -->\r\n<div id=\"mc_embed_signup\"><form id=\"mc-embedded-subscribe-form\" class=\"validate\" action=\"//midwestpesticideaction.us7.list-manage.com/subscribe/post?u=1a20e747b9a38f4e966cf07e2&amp;id=c7390a996c\" method=\"post\" name=\"mc-embedded-subscribe-form\" novalidate=\"\" target=\"_blank\">\r\n<div id=\"mc_embed_signup_scroll\">\r\n<h2>Fill out the information below to take the pledge.</h2>\r\n<div class=\"indicates-required\"><span class=\"asterisk\">*</span> indicates required</div>\r\n<div class=\"indicates-required\"></div>\r\n<div class=\"mc-field-group\"><label for=\"mce-EMAIL\">Email Address <span class=\"asterisk\">*</span></label>\r\n<input id=\"mce-EMAIL\" class=\"required email\" name=\"EMAIL\" type=\"email\" value=\"\" /></div>\r\n<div class=\"mc-field-group\"></div>\r\n<div class=\"mc-field-group\"><label for=\"mce-FNAME\">First Name <span class=\"asterisk\">*</span></label>\r\n<input id=\"mce-FNAME\" class=\"required\" name=\"FNAME\" type=\"text\" value=\"\" /></div>\r\n<div class=\"mc-field-group\"></div>\r\n<div class=\"mc-field-group\"><label for=\"mce-LNAME\">Last Name <span class=\"asterisk\">*</span></label>\r\n<input id=\"mce-LNAME\" class=\"required\" name=\"LNAME\" type=\"text\" value=\"\" />\r\n<div class=\"mc-field-group\"></div>\r\n<div class=\"mc-address-group\">\r\n<div class=\"mc-field-group\"><label for=\"mce-SADDRESS-addr1\">Street Address </label>\r\n<input id=\"mce-SADDRESS-addr1\" maxlength=\"70\" name=\"SADDRESS[addr1]\" type=\"text\" value=\"\" /></div>\r\n</div>\r\n<div class=\"mc-field-group\"></div>\r\n<div class=\"mc-field-group\"><label for=\"mce-SADDRESS-addr2\">Address Line 2</label>\r\n<input id=\"mce-SADDRESS-addr2\" maxlength=\"70\" name=\"SADDRESS[addr2]\" type=\"text\" value=\"\" /></div>\r\n<div class=\"mc-field-group\"></div>\r\n<div class=\"mc-field-group size1of2\"><label for=\"mce-SADDRESS-city\">City</label>\r\n<input id=\"mce-SADDRESS-city\" maxlength=\"40\" name=\"SADDRESS[city]\" type=\"text\" value=\"\" /></div>\r\n<div class=\"mc-field-group size1of2\"></div>\r\n<div class=\"mc-field-group size1of2\"><label for=\"mce-SADDRESS-state\">State/Province/Region</label>\r\n<input id=\"mce-SADDRESS-state\" maxlength=\"20\" name=\"SADDRESS[state]\" type=\"text\" value=\"\" /></div>\r\n<div class=\"mc-field-group size1of2\"></div>\r\n</div>\r\n<div class=\"mc-field-group\"><label for=\"mce-ZIP\">Zip Code <span class=\"asterisk\">*</span></label>\r\n<input id=\"mce-ZIP\" class=\"required\" name=\"ZIP\" type=\"text\" value=\"\" /></div>\r\n&nbsp;\r\n<div style=\"position: absolute; left: -5000px;\"><input tabindex=\"-1\" name=\"b_1a20e747b9a38f4e966cf07e2_c7390a996c\" type=\"text\" value=\"\" /></div>\r\n<div class=\"pledge-subscribe-button\">\r\n<div class=\"clear\"><input id=\"mc-embedded-subscribe\" class=\"button\" name=\"subscribe\" type=\"submit\" value=\"Subscribe\" /></div>\r\n</div>\r\n</div>\r\n</form></div>\r\n<script src=\"//s3.amazonaws.com/downloads.mailchimp.com/js/mc-validate.js\"></script><script>// <![CDATA[\r\n(function($) {window.fnames = new Array(); window.ftypes = new Array();fnames[0]=\'EMAIL\';ftypes[0]=\'email\';fnames[1]=\'FNAME\';ftypes[1]=\'text\';fnames[2]=\'LNAME\';ftypes[2]=\'text\';fnames[3]=\'SADDRESS\';ftypes[3]=\'address\';fnames[5]=\'CITY\';ftypes[5]=\'address\';fnames[4]=\'ZIP\';ftypes[4]=\'zip\';}(jQuery));var $mcj = jQuery.noConflict(true);\r\n// ]]></script>\r\n<!--End mc_embed_signup-->\r\n<div class=\"clear\"></div>\r\n<div class=\"clear\"></div>\r\n<div class=\"clear\"></div>\r\n<div class=\"clear\"></div>\r\n<div class=\"clear\"></div>\r\n<div class=\"clear\"></div>\r\n<p class=\"donate-paragraph\"><strong>Donate $10+  below and you\'ll receive a \"Keep ON the Grass\" sign.</strong></p>\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<hr />\r\n\r\n<h2 class=\"pledge-heading\">Donate</h2>\r\n<p class=\"tagline ng-binding ng-scope\" style=\"font-weight: 400; color: #666666;\" data-ng-if=\"vm.campaign.content.tagline\">Our goal is to establish 10 pesticide-free parks, 30 point-of-purchase retailers, and 200 MGG pledges by the end of 2016. We need your support.</p>\r\n<p class=\"tagline ng-binding ng-scope\" style=\"font-weight: 400; color: #666666;\" data-ng-if=\"vm.campaign.content.tagline\"><a href=\" http://midwestpesticideaction.org/midwest-grows-green/community-engagement/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\" http://midwestpesticideaction.org/midwest-grows-green/community-engagement/\"><img class=\"alignright wp-image-2389 size-medium\" src=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/KeepOnGrass_sign_generic1-200x300.jpg\" alt=\"KeepOnGrass_sign_generic\" width=\"200\" height=\"300\" /></a></p>\r\n\r\n<ul class=\"pledge-donate\">\r\n	<li><i class=\"fa fa-leaf\"></i>$10 I want a “Keep ON the Grass” sign!*</li>\r\n	<li><i class=\"fa fa-leaf\"></i>$20 I want a point-of-purchase retailer!</li>\r\n	<li><i class=\"fa fa-leaf\"></i>$30 I want to put on an MGG event!</li>\r\n	<li><i class=\"fa fa-leaf\"></i>$50 I want a Pesticide Free Park!</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n<div class=\"pledge-button\"><a class=\"button\" href=\"https://publicgood.com/org/midwest-pesticide-action-center-nfp-chicago-il-364361525/campaign/help-spread-the-mgg-message\" target=\"_blank\">DONATE</a></div>\r\n<div style=\"color: #222222;\"></div>\r\n<div style=\"color: #222222;\"></div>\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n*Donate $10+ and you\'ll receive a \"Keep ON the Grass\" sign.','Take the Pledge','','inherit','closed','open','','2929-revision-v1','','','2016-05-10 16:30:46','2016-05-10 16:30:46','',2929,'http://midwestpesticideaction.org/2929-revision-v1/',0,'revision','',0),(3171,2,'2016-05-16 15:17:37','2016-05-16 15:17:37','','WIH_MPAC BITE Back! newsletter Vol.16','','inherit','closed','open','','wih_mpac-bite-back-newsletter-vol-16','','','2016-05-16 15:17:37','2016-05-16 15:17:37','',0,'http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/WIH_MPAC-BITE-Back-newsletter-Vol.16.pdf',0,'attachment','application/pdf',0),(3172,2,'2016-05-16 15:25:06','2016-05-16 15:25:06','<h2>Resources</h2>\r\nMidwest Pesticide Action Center has developed a number of toolkits, guides, and factsheets to help you reduce your exposure to pesticides. Our information empowers renters, homeowners, managers, parents, and decision-makers to make smart decisions that lead to healthier communities.\r\n\r\nContinue reading<a name=\"Features\"></a> for: <a href=\"#Features\">Feature Publications</a>, <a href=\"#Home\">In Your Home</a>, <a href=\"#Community\">In Your Community</a>\r\n\r\n<hr />\r\n\r\n<h3>Feature Publications</h3>\r\n[one_half]\r\n<strong>Activist’s Toolkit: </strong>The basics of natural lawn care, health benefits of switching to natural lawn care, and practical tools and example documents to use during a campaign.\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-The-Activists-Toolkit.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">The Activists Toolkit</a>\r\n\r\n<strong>Municipal Pesticide Reduction Toolkit:</strong> Information about pesticide reduction as a sustainable cost effective choice for municipal operations.\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/Final-Toolkit-4-21-2014-NY.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Municipal Pesticide Reduction Toolkit</a>\r\n\r\n<strong>Midwest Grows Green: A Guide to Growing an Environmentally-Friendly Lawn &amp; Garden: </strong>Reduce your contribution to climate change, help your lawn and garden adapt to a changing environment, and produce beautiful outdoor spaces.\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/WOY_Midwest_Grows_Green_Guide-final.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Midwest Grows Green Guide</a>\r\n[/one_half]\r\n\r\n[one_half_last]\r\n<strong>Human Health and Pesticides: Glyphosate and 2,4-D:</strong> This white paper discusses the common active ingredients in lawn pesticides of Glyphosate and 2,4-D and their human health impacts.\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/12/MPAC_WhitePaper-final-12.11.15.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Human Health and Pesticides White Paper</a>\r\n\r\n<strong>Resource Guide for Integrated Pest Management in Schools/Childcares:</strong> The materials your school needs to put an IPM program in place, including sample policies, forms and protocol.\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-Resource-Guide-for-IPM-in-Schools-and-Childcares.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Resource Guide for IPM in Schools and Childcares</a>\r\n\r\n<strong>Battling Bed Bugs in Chicago: </strong>View our bed bug policy, which demonstrates the necessity of taking action on this issue.\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/WIH_MPAC-Battling-Bed-Bugs-2015.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Battling Bed Bugs in Chicago: Making the Case for a Comprehensive Plan</a>\r\n[/one_half_last]\r\n<a name=\"Home\"></a>\r\n\r\n<hr />\r\n\r\nThe following publications are also available for download. Some publications offer downloads in multiple languages. <span class=\"orange\">Click or tap a title to start download.</span>\r\n<h3>In Your Home</h3>\r\n<h4>Indoors</h4>\r\n[one_half]\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/02/Bed-Bug-Ordinance-Essentials.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Bed Bug Ordinance Essentials\r\n</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/MPAC-BedBugOrdTen_FS_English.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Bed Bug Ordinance for Tenants English</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/MPAC-BedBugOrdTen_FS_French.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">French</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/MPAC-BedBugOrdTen_FS_Arabic1.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Arabic</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/MPAC-BedBugOrdTen_FS_Burmese.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Burmese</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/02/Bed-Bug-Ordinance-Essentials.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">\r\n</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-Chicago-Tenants-Rights-and-Responsibilities-English.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Chicago Tenants Rights and Responsibilities English</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-Chicago-Tenants-Rights-and-Responsibilities-Spanish.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Spanish</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/02/Bed-Bug-Ordinance-Essentials.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">\r\n</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-Bed-Bug-Checklist-for-Tenants-English.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Bed Bug Checklist for Tenants English</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-Bed-Bug-Checklist-for-Tenants-Spanish1.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Spanish</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-Bed-Bugs-Tenants-Checklist-Chinese.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Chinese</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-Bed-Bug-Checklist-for-Tenants-Polish.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Polish</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-Bed-Bug-Checklist-for-Tenants-French.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">French</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/02/Bed-Bug-Ordinance-Essentials.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">\r\n</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-How-Do-I-Know-Im-Receiving-IPM-Factsheet.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">How Do I Know I\'m Receiving IPM Factsheet</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/02/Bed-Bug-Ordinance-Essentials.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">\r\n</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/WI_MPAC-10-Steps-to-Pest-Control.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">10 Steps to Pest Control English</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-10-Steps-to-Pest-Control-Spanish.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Spanish</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/02/Bed-Bug-Ordinance-Essentials.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">\r\n</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/10/WI_MPAC-Pest-Control-Companies-That-Provide-IPM.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Pest Control Companies That Provide IPM</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/02/Bed-Bug-Ordinance-Essentials.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">\r\n</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-Ants.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Ants</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/02/Bed-Bug-Ordinance-Essentials.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">\r\n</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-Cockroaches.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Cockroaches</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/02/Bed-Bug-Ordinance-Essentials.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">\r\n</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-Mice-Factsheet.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Mice</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/02/Bed-Bug-Ordinance-Essentials.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">\r\n</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-Asthma-Pests-and-Pesticides.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Asthma, Pests, and Pesticides</a>\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-The-Truth-About-Head-Lice.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">The Truth About Head Lice</a>\r\n<h4>Outdoors</h4>\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-Products-for-Your-Natural-Lawn1.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Products for Your Natural Lawn</a>\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-NLC-Calendar.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Natural Lawn Care Calendar</a>\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/Read-Your-Weeds.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Read Your Weeds</a>\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-Mosquito-Misters-What-You-Need-to-Know.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Mosquito Misters: What You Need to Know</a>\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/Complete-Mosquito-Factsheet-Update.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Mosquitos and West Nile Virus</a>\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/MPAC-Pets-and-Pesticides-TU.pdf\" target=\"blank\">Pets and Pesticides</a>\r\n[/one_half]\r\n\r\n[one_half_last]\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-Reasonable-Accomodations-for-Renters.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Reasonable Accommodations for Renters with Pest Problems</a>\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-Bed-Bugs-English.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Bed Bugs English</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-Bed-Bugs-Spanish.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Spanish</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-Bed-Bugs-Chinese.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Chinese</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-Bed-Bugs-Polish.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Polish</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-Bed-Bugs-French.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">French</a>\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/01/MPAC-BITE-Back-newsletters-vol.1-4.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">B.I.T.E. Back! Newsletter vol. 1-4</a>\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/01/MPAC-BITE-Back-newsletters-vol.5-8.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">B.I.T.E. BACK! Newsletter vol. 5-8</a>\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/01/B.I.T.E.-BACK-NEWSLETTERS-VOL.9-11.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">B.I.T.E. BACK! Newsletter vol. 9-11</a>\r\n<a class=\"download\" title=\"B.I.T.E. Back! Volume 12\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/BiteBack_Fall13.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">B.I.T.E. Back! Newsletter vol. 12</a>\r\n<a class=\"download\" title=\"B.I.T.E. Back! Newsletter vol. 13\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/BiteBack_Spring14.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">B.I.T.E. Back! Newsletter vol. 13\r\n</a><a class=\"download\" title=\"B.I.T.E. Back! Newsletter vol. 13\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/BiteBack_vol14.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">B.I.T.E. Back! Newsletter vol.14</a>\r\n<a class=\"download\" title=\"B.I.T.E. Back! Newsletter vol. 15\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/WIH_MPAC-BITE-Back-newsletters-Vol.-15.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">B.I.T.E. Back! Newsletter vol.15</a>\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-Bedbugs-Poster-English.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">B.I.T.E. Back! Bed Bug Poster English</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/MPAC-Bedbugs-Poster-Spanish.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Spanish</a>\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-Bed-Bug-Checklist-for-Landlords-English.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Bed Bug Checklist for Landlords English</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-Bed-Bug-Checklist-for-Landlords-Spanish.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Spanish</a>\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/How-to-Hire-a-PCO-For-BB.pdf\" target=\"blank\">How to Hire a Pest Control Operator For Bed Bugs</a>\r\n\r\n<a class=\"download\" style=\"line-height: 1.5em;\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/MPAC-Natural-Lawn-Care-for-Homeowners.pdf\">Natural Lawn Care for Homeowners</a>\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-Bee-Friendly-Garden.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">A Bee-Friendly Garden is a Pesticide-Free Garden</a>\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/MWGG_Brochure_final.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Midwest Grows Green Brochure</a>\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-Talking-to-Your-Neighbors-About-Pesticides1.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Talking to Your Neighbors About Pesticides</a>\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-Pesticide-Free-Zone-Sign-Factsheet.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Pesticide Free Zone Sign</a>\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/WOY_MPAC-Pesticide-Free-Zone-Sign-order-form-color.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Pesticide Free Zone Sign Order Form</a>\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/02/WOY_MPAC-Midwest-Natural-Lawn-Care-Companies3.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Midwest Natural Lawn Care Companies</a> <a name=\"Community\"></a>\r\n[/one_half_last]\r\n\r\n<hr />\r\n\r\n<h3>In Your Community</h3>\r\n[one_half]\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-The-Activists-Toolkit.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">The Activist\'s Toolkit</a>\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/Final-Toolkit-4-21-2014-NY.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Municipal Pesticide Reduction Toolkit</a>\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-Resource-Guide-for-IPM-in-Schools-and-Childcares.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Resource Guide for IPM in Schools and Childcares</a><strong>\r\n</strong><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-Healthy-Parks-Campaign.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Healthy Parks Campaign</a>\r\n[/one_half]\r\n\r\n[one_half_last]\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/ParentsRight-to-Know-NotificationGuidelines.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Parents\' Right to Know Notification Guidelines English</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/ParentsRight-to-Know-NotificationGuidelines-Spanish.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Spanish</a>\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/MPAC-Reducing-Pesticides-in-Schools-a-Parents-Guide.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Reducing Pesticides in Schools: A Parent\'s Guide</a>\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/MPAC-Bed-Bugs-in-Schools-and-Childcares.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Bed Bugs in Schools and Childcares\r\n</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/WOY_MPAC-Pesticide-Disposal-The-Right-Way.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Pesticide Disposal the Right Way</a>\r\n\r\n[/one_half_last]','Resources','','inherit','closed','open','','119-revision-v1','','','2016-05-16 15:25:06','2016-05-16 15:25:06','',119,'http://midwestpesticideaction.org/119-revision-v1/',0,'revision','',0),(3173,2,'2016-05-16 15:28:28','2016-05-16 15:28:28','<h2>Resources</h2>\r\nMidwest Pesticide Action Center has developed a number of toolkits, guides, and factsheets to help you reduce your exposure to pesticides. Our information empowers renters, homeowners, managers, parents, and decision-makers to make smart decisions that lead to healthier communities.\r\n\r\nContinue reading<a name=\"Features\"></a> for: <a href=\"#Features\">Feature Publications</a>, <a href=\"#Home\">In Your Home</a>, <a href=\"#Community\">In Your Community</a>\r\n\r\n<hr />\r\n\r\n<h3>Feature Publications</h3>\r\n[one_half]\r\n<strong>Activist’s Toolkit: </strong>The basics of natural lawn care, health benefits of switching to natural lawn care, and practical tools and example documents to use during a campaign.\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-The-Activists-Toolkit.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">The Activists Toolkit</a>\r\n\r\n<strong>Municipal Pesticide Reduction Toolkit:</strong> Information about pesticide reduction as a sustainable cost effective choice for municipal operations.\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/Final-Toolkit-4-21-2014-NY.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Municipal Pesticide Reduction Toolkit</a>\r\n\r\n<strong>Midwest Grows Green: A Guide to Growing an Environmentally-Friendly Lawn &amp; Garden: </strong>Reduce your contribution to climate change, help your lawn and garden adapt to a changing environment, and produce beautiful outdoor spaces.\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/WOY_Midwest_Grows_Green_Guide-final.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Midwest Grows Green Guide</a>\r\n[/one_half]\r\n\r\n[one_half_last]\r\n<strong>Human Health and Pesticides: Glyphosate and 2,4-D:</strong> This white paper discusses the common active ingredients in lawn pesticides of Glyphosate and 2,4-D and their human health impacts.\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/12/MPAC_WhitePaper-final-12.11.15.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Human Health and Pesticides White Paper</a>\r\n\r\n<strong>Resource Guide for Integrated Pest Management in Schools/Childcares:</strong> The materials your school needs to put an IPM program in place, including sample policies, forms and protocol.\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-Resource-Guide-for-IPM-in-Schools-and-Childcares.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Resource Guide for IPM in Schools and Childcares</a>\r\n\r\n<strong>Battling Bed Bugs in Chicago: </strong>View our bed bug policy, which demonstrates the necessity of taking action on this issue.\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/WIH_MPAC-Battling-Bed-Bugs-2015.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Battling Bed Bugs in Chicago: Making the Case for a Comprehensive Plan</a>\r\n[/one_half_last]\r\n<a name=\"Home\"></a>\r\n\r\n<hr />\r\n\r\nThe following publications are also available for download. Some publications offer downloads in multiple languages. <span class=\"orange\">Click or tap a title to start download.</span>\r\n<h3>In Your Home</h3>\r\n<h4>Indoors</h4>\r\n[one_half]\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/02/Bed-Bug-Ordinance-Essentials.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Bed Bug Ordinance Essentials\r\n</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/MPAC-BedBugOrdTen_FS_English.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Bed Bug Ordinance for Tenants English</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/MPAC-BedBugOrdTen_FS_French.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">French</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/MPAC-BedBugOrdTen_FS_Arabic1.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Arabic</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/MPAC-BedBugOrdTen_FS_Burmese.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Burmese</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/02/Bed-Bug-Ordinance-Essentials.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">\r\n</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-Chicago-Tenants-Rights-and-Responsibilities-English.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Chicago Tenants Rights and Responsibilities English</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-Chicago-Tenants-Rights-and-Responsibilities-Spanish.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Spanish</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/02/Bed-Bug-Ordinance-Essentials.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">\r\n</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-Bed-Bug-Checklist-for-Tenants-English.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Bed Bug Checklist for Tenants English</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-Bed-Bug-Checklist-for-Tenants-Spanish1.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Spanish</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-Bed-Bugs-Tenants-Checklist-Chinese.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Chinese</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-Bed-Bug-Checklist-for-Tenants-Polish.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Polish</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-Bed-Bug-Checklist-for-Tenants-French.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">French</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/02/Bed-Bug-Ordinance-Essentials.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">\r\n</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-How-Do-I-Know-Im-Receiving-IPM-Factsheet.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">How Do I Know I\'m Receiving IPM Factsheet</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/02/Bed-Bug-Ordinance-Essentials.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">\r\n</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/WI_MPAC-10-Steps-to-Pest-Control.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">10 Steps to Pest Control English</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-10-Steps-to-Pest-Control-Spanish.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Spanish</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/02/Bed-Bug-Ordinance-Essentials.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">\r\n</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/10/WI_MPAC-Pest-Control-Companies-That-Provide-IPM.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Pest Control Companies That Provide IPM</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/02/Bed-Bug-Ordinance-Essentials.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">\r\n</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-Ants.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Ants</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/02/Bed-Bug-Ordinance-Essentials.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">\r\n</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-Cockroaches.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Cockroaches</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/02/Bed-Bug-Ordinance-Essentials.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">\r\n</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-Mice-Factsheet.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Mice</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/02/Bed-Bug-Ordinance-Essentials.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">\r\n</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-Asthma-Pests-and-Pesticides.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Asthma, Pests, and Pesticides</a>\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-The-Truth-About-Head-Lice.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">The Truth About Head Lice</a>\r\n<h4>Outdoors</h4>\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-Products-for-Your-Natural-Lawn1.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Products for Your Natural Lawn</a>\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-NLC-Calendar.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Natural Lawn Care Calendar</a>\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/Read-Your-Weeds.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Read Your Weeds</a>\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-Mosquito-Misters-What-You-Need-to-Know.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Mosquito Misters: What You Need to Know</a>\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/Complete-Mosquito-Factsheet-Update.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Mosquitos and West Nile Virus</a>\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/MPAC-Pets-and-Pesticides-TU.pdf\" target=\"blank\">Pets and Pesticides</a>\r\n[/one_half]\r\n\r\n[one_half_last]\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-Reasonable-Accomodations-for-Renters.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Reasonable Accommodations for Renters with Pest Problems</a>\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-Bed-Bugs-English.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Bed Bugs English</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-Bed-Bugs-Spanish.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Spanish</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-Bed-Bugs-Chinese.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Chinese</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-Bed-Bugs-Polish.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Polish</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-Bed-Bugs-French.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">French</a>\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/01/MPAC-BITE-Back-newsletters-vol.1-4.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">B.I.T.E. Back! Newsletter vol. 1-4</a>\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/01/MPAC-BITE-Back-newsletters-vol.5-8.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">B.I.T.E. BACK! Newsletter vol. 5-8</a>\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/01/B.I.T.E.-BACK-NEWSLETTERS-VOL.9-11.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">B.I.T.E. BACK! Newsletter vol. 9-11</a>\r\n<a class=\"download\" title=\"B.I.T.E. Back! Volume 12\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/BiteBack_Fall13.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">B.I.T.E. Back! Newsletter vol. 12</a>\r\n<a class=\"download\" title=\"B.I.T.E. Back! Newsletter vol. 13\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/BiteBack_Spring14.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">B.I.T.E. Back! Newsletter vol. 13\r\n</a><a class=\"download\" title=\"B.I.T.E. Back! Newsletter vol. 13\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/BiteBack_vol14.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">B.I.T.E. Back! Newsletter vol.14</a>\r\n<a class=\"download\" title=\"B.I.T.E. Back! Newsletter vol. 15\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/WIH_MPAC-BITE-Back-newsletters-Vol.-15.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">B.I.T.E. Back! Newsletter vol.15</a>\r\n<a class=\"download\" title=\"B.I.T.E. Back! Newsletter vol. 16\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/WIH_MPAC-BITE-Back-newsletter-Vol.16.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">B.I.T.E. Back! Newsletter vol.16</a>\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-Bedbugs-Poster-English.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">B.I.T.E. Back! Bed Bug Poster English</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/MPAC-Bedbugs-Poster-Spanish.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Spanish</a>\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-Bed-Bug-Checklist-for-Landlords-English.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Bed Bug Checklist for Landlords English</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-Bed-Bug-Checklist-for-Landlords-Spanish.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Spanish</a>\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/How-to-Hire-a-PCO-For-BB.pdf\" target=\"blank\">How to Hire a Pest Control Operator For Bed Bugs</a>\r\n\r\n<a class=\"download\" style=\"line-height: 1.5em;\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/MPAC-Natural-Lawn-Care-for-Homeowners.pdf\">Natural Lawn Care for Homeowners</a>\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-Bee-Friendly-Garden.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">A Bee-Friendly Garden is a Pesticide-Free Garden</a>\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/MWGG_Brochure_final.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Midwest Grows Green Brochure</a>\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-Talking-to-Your-Neighbors-About-Pesticides1.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Talking to Your Neighbors About Pesticides</a>\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-Pesticide-Free-Zone-Sign-Factsheet.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Pesticide Free Zone Sign</a>\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/WOY_MPAC-Pesticide-Free-Zone-Sign-order-form-color.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Pesticide Free Zone Sign Order Form</a>\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/02/WOY_MPAC-Midwest-Natural-Lawn-Care-Companies3.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Midwest Natural Lawn Care Companies</a> <a name=\"Community\"></a>\r\n[/one_half_last]\r\n\r\n<hr />\r\n\r\n<h3>In Your Community</h3>\r\n[one_half]\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-The-Activists-Toolkit.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">The Activist\'s Toolkit</a>\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/Final-Toolkit-4-21-2014-NY.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Municipal Pesticide Reduction Toolkit</a>\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-Resource-Guide-for-IPM-in-Schools-and-Childcares.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Resource Guide for IPM in Schools and Childcares</a><strong>\r\n</strong><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-Healthy-Parks-Campaign.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Healthy Parks Campaign</a>\r\n[/one_half]\r\n\r\n[one_half_last]\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/ParentsRight-to-Know-NotificationGuidelines.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Parents\' Right to Know Notification Guidelines English</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/ParentsRight-to-Know-NotificationGuidelines-Spanish.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Spanish</a>\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/MPAC-Reducing-Pesticides-in-Schools-a-Parents-Guide.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Reducing Pesticides in Schools: A Parent\'s Guide</a>\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/MPAC-Bed-Bugs-in-Schools-and-Childcares.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Bed Bugs in Schools and Childcares\r\n</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/WOY_MPAC-Pesticide-Disposal-The-Right-Way.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Pesticide Disposal the Right Way</a>\r\n\r\n[/one_half_last]','Resources','','inherit','closed','open','','119-revision-v1','','','2016-05-16 15:28:28','2016-05-16 15:28:28','',119,'http://midwestpesticideaction.org/119-revision-v1/',0,'revision','',0),(3174,2,'2016-05-17 15:53:03','2016-05-17 15:53:03','<h1><a href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/iStock_000001262286Large-Bedroom-e1380746954290.jpg\"><img class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-375\" src=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/iStock_000001262286Large-Bedroom-e1380746954290.jpg\" alt=\"Bedroom\" width=\"500\" height=\"289\" /></a></h1>\r\n<h1>Beating Back Bed Bugs</h1>\r\nOne out of every five Americans has had a bed bug infestation in their home or knows someone who has. Bed bugs can live everywhere—from single-family homes, apartment buildings, and shelters, to office buildings and hotels. Residents, building managers, and businesses take desperate measures to control these tenacious pests, often leading to dangerous use and misuse of pesticides that aggravate asthma and cause unnecessary exposure to high levels of chemicals. Minimal use of pesticides can safely and effectively control Bed bugs. Midwest Pesticide Action Center holds training events, workshops, and has developed outreach materials to educate residents and institutions on how to spot early signs of bed bug infestations, response strategies, and effective treatment options. Continue reading<a name=\"Events\"></a> for: <a href=\"#Events\">Bed Bugs and Chicago Training Events</a>, <a href=\"#Outreach\">Outreach that Informs and Empowers</a>, <a href=\"#Policy\">Policy Making</a>, <a href=\"#Change\">Making Institutional Change</a>\r\n<h2>Bed Bugs and Chicago Training Events</h2>\r\nBeing informed and aware is the best way of controlling bed bugs. We hold training events throughout Chicago and provide a basic knowledge of bed bug behavior and control.\r\n<ul>\r\n	<li>We offer sessions to residents, landlords, and business owners.</li>\r\n	<li>Designed in a “Train the Trainer” format, we provide attendees with materials and tools to share what they learn with their own organizations and residents.</li>\r\n	<li>Bed Bugs in Chicago has trained over 3,100 individuals and impacted an estimated 144,000 households.</li>\r\n	<li>Visit the <a href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/mpac-events/\">Upcoming Events Page</a> to sign up for the next training.</li>\r\n	<li>Subscribe to our e-newsletter to be alerted when new events are<a name=\"Outreach\"></a> scheduled.</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/2013-Regional-Bedbug-Flyer-Banner-2.jpg\"><img class=\" wp-image-911 aligncenter\" src=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/2013-Regional-Bedbug-Flyer-Banner-2-1024x411.jpg\" alt=\"2013 Regional Bedbug Flyer Banner 2\" width=\"410\" height=\"164\" /></a></p>\r\n\r\n<h2>Outreach That Informs and Empowers</h2>\r\nWe provide a number of resources that inform landlords and residents on their rights and responsibilities when it comes to bed bug treatment.\r\n<ul>\r\n	<li><a href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/BITE-Back-Volume-12-Page-1.jpg\"><img class=\" wp-image-913 alignright\" src=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/BITE-Back-Volume-12-Page-1-791x1024.jpg\" alt=\"BITE Back Volume 12 Page 1\" width=\"230\" height=\"298\" /></a>The <a href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/MPAC-BITE-Back-newsletters-vol.1-11.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">B.I.T.E. Back! Newsletter</a> explores new options on controlling bed bugs and how to make informed decisions when paying for services and products.</li>\r\n	<li>We have many materials in Spanish, and some in Polish, French, and Mandarin.</li>\r\n	<li>Participating in and hosting information sessions on the Chicago Bed Bug<a name=\"Policy\"></a> Ordinance.</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n<h2>Policy Making</h2>\r\nMidwest Pesticide Action Center works to impact the greatest number of people for the greatest good.\r\n<ul>\r\n	<li>As part of our appointment duties to the Structural Pest Control Task Force,<a href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/11/MPAC-Battling-Bed-Bugs-page-0-e1385066657229.jpg\"><img class=\"size-full wp-image-1094 alignright\" src=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/11/MPAC-Battling-Bed-Bugs-page-0-e1385066657229.jpg\" alt=\"MPAC Battling Bed Bugs-page-0\" width=\"245\" height=\"317\" /></a> we worked with the state on the <a href=\"http://spcpweb.org/attachments/SOBBREPORT_10_14_11Final.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">State of Bed Bugs in Illinois report</a>, which makes recommendations regarding next steps for the state’s response to the bed bug problem.</li>\r\n	<li>Midwest Pesticide Action Center helped the City of Chicago’s City Council to <a href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/what-we-do/advancing-toxic-free-policies/\">pass the public health-protection ordinance</a> on bed bugs, which classifies bed bugs as a public nuisance.</li>\r\n	<li>The ordinance passed in 2013 and was based on the 2011 Midwest Pesticide Action Center Report: Bed Bugs: Making the Case for a Comprehensive<a name=\"Change\"></a> Approach.</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n<h2>Making Institutional Change</h2>\r\nThrough customized training, workshops, and one-on-one education, Midwest Pesticide Action Center works with institutions and building managers to develop strategies for structural and mechanical methods, monitoring, sanitation, and non-chemical and least-toxic treatments for the control of bed bugs and helps ensures the health of thousands of people. A short list of institutions we have worked with includes:\r\n<ul>\r\n	<li>Chicago Housing Authority</li>\r\n	<li>Heartland Alliance</li>\r\n	<li>Chicago Department of Family Support Services</li>\r\n	<li>Mercy Housing</li>\r\n	<li>LUCHA</li>\r\n	<li>The University of Arizona</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n<blockquote>“We provide homes for the most vulnerable populations of society and have been greatly affected by the resurgence of bedbugs in the area. Our experience with this ‘new normal’ has really affected us and [Midwest Pesticide Action Center] has been an excellent ally in advising us on early detection and providing training resources for both our staff and participants. The training and informative resources [Midwest Pesticide Action Center] has provided to our organization are priceless.” - Director of Property Management, Heartland Housing</blockquote>\r\nContact Ruth Kerzee at rkerzee@pesticideaction.org if your organization is interested in working with Midwest Pesticide Action Center. The<a title=\"Polk Bros. Foundation\" href=\"http://www.polkbrosfdn.org/\" target=\"_blank\"> Polk Bros. Foundation</a> and the <a title=\"City of Chicago Bed Bug Information\" href=\"http://www.cityofchicago.org/city/en/depts/bacp/supp_info/bed_bug_information.html\" target=\"_blank\">City of Chicago</a> funds most of our Beating Back Bed Bugs program.\r\n<h3>For More Information</h3>\r\n<strong>University of Arizona Bed Bug Survey: </strong>Learn more about the study and take the survey to help researchers understand the factors behind bed bug infestations. <a title=\"University of Arizona Bed Bug Survey\" <a class=\"more\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/university-of-arizona-bed-bug-survey/\">Learn More</a>\r\n\r\n<strong>Battling Bed Bugs in Chicago- Making the Case for a Comprehensive Plan: </strong>Policy paper produced by Midwest Pesticide Action Center. <a class=\"more\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-Battling-Bed-Bugs.pdf\">Learn More</a>\r\n\r\n<strong>Chicago Bed Bug Ordinance:</strong> The City of Chicago passes a comprehensive public health-protection ordinance on bed bug control. <a class=\"more\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/what-we-do/advancing-toxic-free-policies/\">Learn More </a>\r\n\r\n<strong>B.I.T.E. Back!</strong> We have 11 previous issues of the BITE Back! newsletter, which provides timely information on bed bug treatment and control. <a class=\"more\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/MPAC-BITE-Back-newsletters-vol.1-11.pdf\">Download All Issues </a>\r\n\r\n<strong>In Your Home:</strong> For tips on controlling the spread of bed bugs by making smart decisions. <a class=\"more\" title=\"In Your Home\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/what-you-can-do/in-your-home/\">Learn More</a>\r\n\r\n<strong>View Resources</strong> in multiple languages for efficient and safe ways to control bed bugs.  <a class=\"more\" title=\"View all Resources\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/what-you-can-do/all-resources/\">Learn More</a>','Beating Back Bed Bugs','','inherit','closed','open','','216-autosave-v1','','','2016-05-17 15:53:03','2016-05-17 15:53:03','',216,'http://midwestpesticideaction.org/216-autosave-v1/',0,'revision','',0),(3175,2,'2016-05-17 15:53:29','2016-05-17 15:53:29','<h1><a href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/iStock_000001262286Large-Bedroom-e1380746954290.jpg\"><img class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-375\" src=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/iStock_000001262286Large-Bedroom-e1380746954290.jpg\" alt=\"Bedroom\" width=\"500\" height=\"289\" /></a></h1>\r\n<h1>Beating Back Bed Bugs</h1>\r\nOne out of every five Americans has had a bed bug infestation in their home or knows someone who has. Bed bugs can live everywhere—from single-family homes, apartment buildings, and shelters, to office buildings and hotels. Residents, building managers, and businesses take desperate measures to control these tenacious pests, often leading to dangerous use and misuse of pesticides that aggravate asthma and cause unnecessary exposure to high levels of chemicals. Minimal use of pesticides can safely and effectively control Bed bugs. Midwest Pesticide Action Center holds training events, workshops, and has developed outreach materials to educate residents and institutions on how to spot early signs of bed bug infestations, response strategies, and effective treatment options. Continue reading<a name=\"Events\"></a> for: <a href=\"#Events\">Bed Bugs and Chicago Training Events</a>, <a href=\"#Outreach\">Outreach that Informs and Empowers</a>, <a href=\"#Policy\">Policy Making</a>, <a href=\"#Change\">Making Institutional Change</a>\r\n<h2>Bed Bugs and Chicago Training Events</h2>\r\nBeing informed and aware is the best way of controlling bed bugs. We hold training events throughout Chicago and provide a basic knowledge of bed bug behavior and control.\r\n<ul>\r\n	<li>We offer sessions to residents, landlords, and business owners.</li>\r\n	<li>Designed in a “Train the Trainer” format, we provide attendees with materials and tools to share what they learn with their own organizations and residents.</li>\r\n	<li>Bed Bugs in Chicago has trained over 3,100 individuals and impacted an estimated 144,000 households.</li>\r\n	<li>Visit the <a href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/mpac-events/\">Upcoming Events Page</a> to sign up for the next training.</li>\r\n	<li>Subscribe to our e-newsletter to be alerted when new events are<a name=\"Outreach\"></a> scheduled.</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><a href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/2013-Regional-Bedbug-Flyer-Banner-2.jpg\"><img class=\" wp-image-911 aligncenter\" src=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/2013-Regional-Bedbug-Flyer-Banner-2-1024x411.jpg\" alt=\"2013 Regional Bedbug Flyer Banner 2\" width=\"410\" height=\"164\" /></a></p>\r\n\r\n<h2>Outreach That Informs and Empowers</h2>\r\nWe provide a number of resources that inform landlords and residents on their rights and responsibilities when it comes to bed bug treatment.\r\n<ul>\r\n	<li><a href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/BITE-Back-Volume-12-Page-1.jpg\"><img class=\" wp-image-913 alignright\" src=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/BITE-Back-Volume-12-Page-1-791x1024.jpg\" alt=\"BITE Back Volume 12 Page 1\" width=\"230\" height=\"298\" /></a>The <a href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/MPAC-BITE-Back-newsletters-vol.1-11.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">B.I.T.E. Back! Newsletter</a> explores new options on controlling bed bugs and how to make informed decisions when paying for services and products.</li>\r\n	<li>We have many materials in Spanish, and some in Polish, French, and Mandarin.</li>\r\n	<li>Participating in and hosting information sessions on the Chicago Bed Bug<a name=\"Policy\"></a> Ordinance.</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n<h2>Policy Making</h2>\r\nMidwest Pesticide Action Center works to impact the greatest number of people for the greatest good.\r\n<ul>\r\n	<li>As part of our appointment duties to the Structural Pest Control Task Force,<a href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/11/MPAC-Battling-Bed-Bugs-page-0-e1385066657229.jpg\"><img class=\"size-full wp-image-1094 alignright\" src=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/11/MPAC-Battling-Bed-Bugs-page-0-e1385066657229.jpg\" alt=\"MPAC Battling Bed Bugs-page-0\" width=\"245\" height=\"317\" /></a> we worked with the state on the <a href=\"http://spcpweb.org/attachments/SOBBREPORT_10_14_11Final.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">State of Bed Bugs in Illinois report</a>, which makes recommendations regarding next steps for the state’s response to the bed bug problem.</li>\r\n	<li>Midwest Pesticide Action Center helped the City of Chicago’s City Council to <a href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/what-we-do/advancing-toxic-free-policies/\">pass the public health-protection ordinance</a> on bed bugs, which classifies bed bugs as a public nuisance.</li>\r\n	<li>The ordinance passed in 2013 and was based on the 2011 Midwest Pesticide Action Center Report: Bed Bugs: Making the Case for a Comprehensive<a name=\"Change\"></a> Approach.</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n<h2>Making Institutional Change</h2>\r\nThrough customized training, workshops, and one-on-one education, Midwest Pesticide Action Center works with institutions and building managers to develop strategies for structural and mechanical methods, monitoring, sanitation, and non-chemical and least-toxic treatments for the control of bed bugs and helps ensures the health of thousands of people. A short list of institutions we have worked with includes:\r\n<ul>\r\n	<li>Chicago Housing Authority</li>\r\n	<li>Heartland Alliance</li>\r\n	<li>Chicago Department of Family Support Services</li>\r\n	<li>Mercy Housing</li>\r\n	<li>LUCHA</li>\r\n	<li>The University of Arizona</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n<blockquote>“We provide homes for the most vulnerable populations of society and have been greatly affected by the resurgence of bedbugs in the area. Our experience with this ‘new normal’ has really affected us and [Midwest Pesticide Action Center] has been an excellent ally in advising us on early detection and providing training resources for both our staff and participants. The training and informative resources [Midwest Pesticide Action Center] has provided to our organization are priceless.” - Director of Property Management, Heartland Housing</blockquote>\r\nContact Ruth Kerzee at rkerzee@pesticideaction.org if your organization is interested in working with Midwest Pesticide Action Center. The<a title=\"Polk Bros. Foundation\" href=\"http://www.polkbrosfdn.org/\" target=\"_blank\"> Polk Bros. Foundation</a> and the <a title=\"City of Chicago Bed Bug Information\" href=\"http://www.cityofchicago.org/city/en/depts/bacp/supp_info/bed_bug_information.html\" target=\"_blank\">City of Chicago</a> funds most of our Beating Back Bed Bugs program.\r\n<h3>For More Information</h3>\r\n<strong>University of Arizona Bed Bug Survey: </strong>Learn more about the study and take the survey to help researchers understand the factors behind bed bug infestations. <a title=\"University of Arizona Bed Bug Survey\" <a class=\"more\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/university-of-arizona-bed-bug-survey/\">Learn More</a>\r\n\r\n<strong>Battling Bed Bugs in Chicago- Making the Case for a Comprehensive Plan: </strong>Policy paper produced by Midwest Pesticide Action Center. <a class=\"more\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-Battling-Bed-Bugs.pdf\">Learn More</a>\r\n\r\n<strong>Chicago Bed Bug Ordinance:</strong> The City of Chicago passes a comprehensive public health-protection ordinance on bed bug control. <a class=\"more\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/what-we-do/advancing-toxic-free-policies/\">Learn More </a>\r\n\r\n<strong>B.I.T.E. Back!</strong> We have 11 previous issues of the BITE Back! newsletter, which provides timely information on bed bug treatment and control. <a class=\"more\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/MPAC-BITE-Back-newsletters-vol.1-11.pdf\">Download All Issues </a>\r\n\r\n<strong>In Your Home:</strong> For tips on controlling the spread of bed bugs by making smart decisions. <a class=\"more\" title=\"In Your Home\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/what-you-can-do/in-your-home/\">Learn More</a>\r\n\r\n<strong>View Resources</strong> in multiple languages for efficient and safe ways to control bed bugs.  <a class=\"more\" title=\"View all Resources\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/what-you-can-do/all-resources/\">Learn More</a>','Beating Back Bed Bugs','','inherit','closed','open','','216-revision-v1','','','2016-05-17 15:53:29','2016-05-17 15:53:29','',216,'http://midwestpesticideaction.org/216-revision-v1/',0,'revision','',0),(3177,2,'2016-05-17 15:55:11','2016-05-17 15:55:11','<img class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-206\" src=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/HealthyParks-Feature.jpg\" alt=\"HealthyParks-Feature\" width=\"500\" height=\"290\" />\r\n<h1>Maintaining Healthy Parks</h1>\r\nAs green refuges in urban landscapes, parks provide necessary places for children to play, athletic facilities for sports teams, spaces for bicyclists and runners, and gathering places for families. Parks should provide safe, healthy places; however, many parks use pesticides on playgrounds and sports fields, along fence lines, and even to create grass-free zones around trees.\r\n\r\nMidwest Pesticide Action Center works to ensure safe and healthy parks for everyone. We engage with communities and park districts across the Midwest to reduce pesticide use and models in demonstrating how to manage green spaces in a healthy way for both people and the environment.\r\n\r\nContinue reading for <a name=\"Healthy\"></a> for: <a href=\"#Healthy\">A Healthy Park is a Natural Park</a>\r\n<h2>A Healthy Park is a Natural Park<span class=\"mceMediaCredit\"><span id=\"4\" class=\"media-credit-mce alignnone\" style=\"width: 255px;\"><span class=\"media-credit-dd\">\r\n</span></span></span></h2>\r\n<a href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/MPAC-Healthy-Parks-Campaign-1.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-725 alignright\" src=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/MPAC-Healthy-Parks-Campaign-1-245x300.jpg\" alt=\"Healthy Parks Campaign Chicago\" width=\"245\" height=\"300\" /></a>Midwest Pesticide Action Center created the <i>A Healthy Park is a Natural Park</i> campaign, an outreach initiative designed to help communities adopt sustainable landscape maintenance practices that do not rely on the use of toxic chemicals.\r\n\r\nThe campaign helps address aesthetic concerns by emphasizing that the presence of dandelions in a park does not mean neglect, but a healthier park and safer place to play.\r\n<ul>\r\n	<li>The first <i>A Healthy Park is a Natural Park</i> campaign launched in Chicago during the spring of 2009 through a partnership with the largest municipal park manager in the country, the Chicago Park District.</li>\r\n	<li>The Chicago Park District refined their landscape-maintenance practices to prevent the use of chemicals in 90 percent of Chicago’s 570 parks, raise awareness about the dangers of pesticide use in public spaces, increase the demand from residents for sustainably maintained parks, and save money.</li>\r\n	<li>Over the last four years, the campaign prevented the use of 66,125 pounds of pesticide-active ingredients.</li>\r\n	<li>By not spraying weed killer, the City saves $1.4 million per application.</li>\r\n	<li>The campaign helped reduce community complaints about dandelions by 90 percent.</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n<blockquote>“The Park District strives to keep our Chicago parks a healthy place for everyone to enjoy. We are encouraging all Chicago residents to follow the Park District’s example and use more natural lawn care techniques that keeps your lawn safe and healthy.\"\r\n\r\n- Mike Kelly, Superintendent and CEO, Chicago Park District</blockquote>\r\nIn spring of 2012, the campaign expanded when Boulder, Colorado, adopted it to eliminate the use of synthetic chemicals on park property. In the last two years, the ongoing campaign, renamed as <i>Healthy Parks = Healthy People</i> continues to grow. View a video released in 2013 by the City of Boulder for details on the program, and <a title=\"Boulder\" href=\"https://www-static.bouldercolorado.gov/docs/HealthyParks-1-201307051347.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">download Boulder\'s Healthy Park Flier</a>.\r\n\r\n<iframe class=\"aligncenter\" src=\"//www.youtube.com/embed/7vCjbthgZsk?rel=0\" width=\"420\" height=\"315\" frameborder=\"0\" allowfullscreen=\"allowfullscreen\"></iframe>\r\n<blockquote>“We all really love this idea for addressing complaints about dandelions. You can take your child to the park and let your baby crawl around on the grass and let your dog roll around on the grass and know that they are not going to be exposed to synthetic pesticides which studies have now shown are linked to cancer in children and dogs.”\r\n\r\n- Rella Abernathy, Integrated Pest Management Coordinator, Community Planning &amp; Sustainability, City of Boulder</blockquote>\r\n<h3>For More Information</h3>\r\n<b>Contact:</b> If interested in introducing the <em>A Natural Park is a Healthy Park</em> campaign to your community, contact us at <a class=\"more\" href=\"mailto:general@pesticideaction.org\">general@pesticideaction.org</a>\r\n\r\n<b>Activist\'s Toolkit</b>: For information on advocating for healthy spaces in your community. <a class=\"more\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-The-Activists-Toolkit.pdf\">Learn More</a>\r\n\r\n<b>Midwest Grows Green</b>: For information on reducing the climate impacts associated with lawn and garden care. <a class=\"more\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/WOY_Midwest_Grows_Green_Guide-final.pdf\">Learn More</a>\r\n\r\n<strong>What You Can Do:</strong> For tips on what you can do to promote healthy spaces in your community and home. <a class=\"more\" title=\"What You Can Do\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/what-you-can-do/\">Learn More</a>\r\n\r\n<a class=\"more\" title=\"View all Resources\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/what-you-can-do/all-resources/\">View all resources</a>','Maintaining Healthy Parks','','inherit','closed','open','','26-revision-v1','','','2016-05-17 15:55:11','2016-05-17 15:55:11','',26,'http://midwestpesticideaction.org/26-revision-v1/',0,'revision','',0),(3178,2,'2017-07-27 17:13:59','2017-07-27 17:13:59','<img class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-206\" src=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/HealthyParks-Feature.jpg\" alt=\"HealthyParks-Feature\" width=\"500\" height=\"290\" />\r\n<h1>Maintaining Healthy Parks</h1>\r\nAs green refuges in urban landscapes, parks provide necessary places for children to play, athletic facilities for sports teams, spaces for bicyclists and runners, and gathering places for families. Parks should provide safe, healthy places; however, many parks use pesticides on playgrounds and sports fields, along fence lines, and even to create grass-free zones around trees.\r\n\r\nMidwest Pesticide Action Center works to ensure safe and healthy parks for everyone. We engage with communities and park districts across the Midwest to reduce pesticide use and models in demonstrating how to manage green spaces in a healthy way for both people and the environment.\r\n\r\nContinue reading for <a name=\"Healthy\"></a> for: <a href=\"#Healthy\">A Healthy Park is a Natural Park</a>\r\n<h2>A Healthy Park is a Natural Park<span class=\"mceMediaCredit\"><span id=\"4\" class=\"media-credit-mce alignnone\" style=\"width: 255px;\"><span class=\"media-credit-dd\">\r\n</span></span></span></h2>\r\n<a href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/MPAC-Healthy-Parks-Campaign-1.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-725 alignright\" src=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/MPAC-Healthy-Parks-Campaign-1-245x300.jpg\" alt=\"Healthy Parks Campaign Chicago\" width=\"245\" height=\"300\" /></a>Midwest Pesticide Action Center created the <i>A Healthy Park is a Natural Park</i> campaign, an outreach initiative designed to help communities adopt sustainable landscape maintenance practices that do not rely on the use of toxic chemicals.\r\n\r\nThe campaign helps address aesthetic concerns by emphasizing that the presence of dandelions in a park does not mean neglect, but a healthier park and safer place to play.\r\n<ul>\r\n 	<li>The first <i>A Healthy Park is a Natural Park</i> campaign launched in Chicago during the spring of 2009 through a partnership with the largest municipal park manager in the country, the Chicago Park District.</li>\r\n 	<li>The Chicago Park District refined their landscape-maintenance practices to prevent the use of chemicals in 90 percent of Chicago’s 570 parks, raise awareness about the dangers of pesticide use in public spaces, increase the demand from residents for sustainably maintained parks, and save money.</li>\r\n 	<li>Over the last four years, the campaign prevented the use of 66,125 pounds of pesticide-active ingredients.</li>\r\n 	<li>By not spraying weed killer, the City saves $1.4 million per application.</li>\r\n 	<li>The campaign helped reduce community complaints about dandelions by 90 percent.</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n<blockquote>“The Park District strives to keep our Chicago parks a healthy place for everyone to enjoy. We are encouraging all Chicago residents to follow the Park District’s example and use more natural lawn care techniques that keeps your lawn safe and healthy.\"\r\n\r\n- Mike Kelly, Superintendent and CEO, Chicago Park District</blockquote>\r\nIn spring of 2012, the campaign expanded when Boulder, Colorado, adopted it to eliminate the use of synthetic chemicals on park property. In the last two years, the ongoing campaign, renamed as <i>Healthy Parks = Healthy People</i> continues to grow. View a video released in 2013 by the City of Boulder for details on the program, and <a title=\"Boulder\" href=\"https://www-static.bouldercolorado.gov/docs/HealthyParks-1-201307051347.pdf\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">download Boulder\'s Healthy Park Flier</a>.\r\n\r\n<iframe class=\"aligncenter\" src=\"//www.youtube.com/embed/7vCjbthgZsk?rel=0\" width=\"420\" height=\"315\" frameborder=\"0\" allowfullscreen=\"allowfullscreen\"></iframe>\r\n<blockquote>“We all really love this idea for addressing complaints about dandelions. You can take your child to the park and let your baby crawl around on the grass and let your dog roll around on the grass and know that they are not going to be exposed to synthetic pesticides which studies have now shown are linked to cancer in children and dogs.”\r\n\r\n- Rella Abernathy, Integrated Pest Management Coordinator, Community Planning &amp; Sustainability, City of Boulder</blockquote>\r\n<h3>For More Information</h3>\r\n<b>Contact:</b> If interested in introducing the <em>A Natural Park is a Healthy Park</em> campaign to your community, contact us at <a class=\"more\" href=\"mailto:general@pesticideaction.org\">general@pesticideaction.org</a>\r\n\r\n<b>Activist\'s Toolkit</b>: For information on advocating for healthy spaces in your community. <a class=\"more\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/ActivistToolkitUpdated.pdf\">Learn More</a>\r\n\r\n<b>Midwest Grows Green</b>: For information on reducing the climate impacts associated with lawn and garden care. <a class=\"more\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/midwest-grows-green/\">Learn More</a>\r\n\r\n<strong>What You Can Do:</strong> For tips on what you can do to promote healthy spaces in your community and home. <a class=\"more\" title=\"What You Can Do\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/what-you-can-do/\">Learn More</a>\r\n\r\n<a class=\"more\" title=\"View all Resources\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/what-you-can-do/all-resources/\">View all resources</a>','Maintaining Healthy Parks','','inherit','closed','open','','26-autosave-v1','','','2017-07-27 17:13:59','2017-07-27 17:13:59','',26,'http://midwestpesticideaction.org/26-autosave-v1/',0,'revision','',0),(3179,2,'2016-05-17 15:58:17','2016-05-17 15:58:17','<img class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-206\" src=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/HealthyParks-Feature.jpg\" alt=\"HealthyParks-Feature\" width=\"500\" height=\"290\" />\r\n<h1>Maintaining Healthy Parks</h1>\r\nAs green refuges in urban landscapes, parks provide necessary places for children to play, athletic facilities for sports teams, spaces for bicyclists and runners, and gathering places for families. Parks should provide safe, healthy places; however, many parks use pesticides on playgrounds and sports fields, along fence lines, and even to create grass-free zones around trees.\r\n\r\nMidwest Pesticide Action Center works to ensure safe and healthy parks for everyone. We engage with communities and park districts across the Midwest to reduce pesticide use and models in demonstrating how to manage green spaces in a healthy way for both people and the environment.\r\n\r\nContinue reading for <a name=\"Healthy\"></a> for: <a href=\"#Healthy\">A Healthy Park is a Natural Park</a>\r\n<h2>A Healthy Park is a Natural Park<span class=\"mceMediaCredit\"><span id=\"4\" class=\"media-credit-mce alignnone\" style=\"width: 255px;\"><span class=\"media-credit-dd\">\r\n</span></span></span></h2>\r\n<a href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/MPAC-Healthy-Parks-Campaign-1.jpg\"><img class=\"size-medium wp-image-725 alignright\" src=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/MPAC-Healthy-Parks-Campaign-1-245x300.jpg\" alt=\"Healthy Parks Campaign Chicago\" width=\"245\" height=\"300\" /></a>Midwest Pesticide Action Center created the <i>A Healthy Park is a Natural Park</i> campaign, an outreach initiative designed to help communities adopt sustainable landscape maintenance practices that do not rely on the use of toxic chemicals.\r\n\r\nThe campaign helps address aesthetic concerns by emphasizing that the presence of dandelions in a park does not mean neglect, but a healthier park and safer place to play.\r\n<ul>\r\n	<li>The first <i>A Healthy Park is a Natural Park</i> campaign launched in Chicago during the spring of 2009 through a partnership with the largest municipal park manager in the country, the Chicago Park District.</li>\r\n	<li>The Chicago Park District refined their landscape-maintenance practices to prevent the use of chemicals in 90 percent of Chicago’s 570 parks, raise awareness about the dangers of pesticide use in public spaces, increase the demand from residents for sustainably maintained parks, and save money.</li>\r\n	<li>Over the last four years, the campaign prevented the use of 66,125 pounds of pesticide-active ingredients.</li>\r\n	<li>By not spraying weed killer, the City saves $1.4 million per application.</li>\r\n	<li>The campaign helped reduce community complaints about dandelions by 90 percent.</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n<blockquote>“The Park District strives to keep our Chicago parks a healthy place for everyone to enjoy. We are encouraging all Chicago residents to follow the Park District’s example and use more natural lawn care techniques that keeps your lawn safe and healthy.\"\r\n\r\n- Mike Kelly, Superintendent and CEO, Chicago Park District</blockquote>\r\nIn spring of 2012, the campaign expanded when Boulder, Colorado, adopted it to eliminate the use of synthetic chemicals on park property. In the last two years, the ongoing campaign, renamed as <i>Healthy Parks = Healthy People</i> continues to grow. View a video released in 2013 by the City of Boulder for details on the program, and <a title=\"Boulder\" href=\"https://www-static.bouldercolorado.gov/docs/HealthyParks-1-201307051347.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">download Boulder\'s Healthy Park Flier</a>.\r\n\r\n<iframe class=\"aligncenter\" src=\"//www.youtube.com/embed/7vCjbthgZsk?rel=0\" width=\"420\" height=\"315\" frameborder=\"0\" allowfullscreen=\"allowfullscreen\"></iframe>\r\n<blockquote>“We all really love this idea for addressing complaints about dandelions. You can take your child to the park and let your baby crawl around on the grass and let your dog roll around on the grass and know that they are not going to be exposed to synthetic pesticides which studies have now shown are linked to cancer in children and dogs.”\r\n\r\n- Rella Abernathy, Integrated Pest Management Coordinator, Community Planning &amp; Sustainability, City of Boulder</blockquote>\r\n<h3>For More Information</h3>\r\n<b>Contact:</b> If interested in introducing the <em>A Natural Park is a Healthy Park</em> campaign to your community, contact us at <a class=\"more\" href=\"mailto:general@pesticideaction.org\">general@pesticideaction.org</a>\r\n\r\n<b>Activist\'s Toolkit</b>: For information on advocating for healthy spaces in your community. <a class=\"more\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-The-Activists-Toolkit.pdf\">Learn More</a>\r\n\r\n<b>Midwest Grows Green</b>: For information on reducing the climate impacts associated with lawn and garden care. <a class=\"more\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/midwest-grows-green/\">Learn More</a>\r\n\r\n<strong>What You Can Do:</strong> For tips on what you can do to promote healthy spaces in your community and home. <a class=\"more\" title=\"What You Can Do\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/what-you-can-do/\">Learn More</a>\r\n\r\n<a class=\"more\" title=\"View all Resources\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/what-you-can-do/all-resources/\">View all resources</a>','Maintaining Healthy Parks','','inherit','closed','open','','26-revision-v1','','','2016-05-17 15:58:17','2016-05-17 15:58:17','',26,'http://midwestpesticideaction.org/26-revision-v1/',0,'revision','',0),(3181,2,'2016-05-23 16:34:07','2016-05-23 16:34:07','','WIH_MPAC BITE Back! all vols 2015','','inherit','closed','open','','wih_mpac-bite-back-all-vols-2015','','','2016-05-23 16:34:07','2016-05-23 16:34:07','',0,'http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/WIH_MPAC-BITE-Back-all-vols-2015.pdf',0,'attachment','application/pdf',0),(3183,2,'2016-05-23 16:38:16','2016-05-23 16:38:16','<h2>Resources</h2>\r\nMidwest Pesticide Action Center has developed a number of toolkits, guides, and factsheets to help you reduce your exposure to pesticides. Our information empowers renters, homeowners, managers, parents, and decision-makers to make smart decisions that lead to healthier communities.\r\n\r\nContinue reading<a name=\"Features\"></a> for: <a href=\"#Features\">Feature Publications</a>, <a href=\"#Home\">In Your Home</a>, <a href=\"#Community\">In Your Community</a>\r\n\r\n<hr />\r\n\r\n<h3>Feature Publications</h3>\r\n[one_half]\r\n<strong>Activist’s Toolkit: </strong>The basics of natural lawn care, health benefits of switching to natural lawn care, and practical tools and example documents to use during a campaign.\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-The-Activists-Toolkit.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">The Activists Toolkit</a>\r\n\r\n<strong>Municipal Pesticide Reduction Toolkit:</strong> Information about pesticide reduction as a sustainable cost effective choice for municipal operations.\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/Final-Toolkit-4-21-2014-NY.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Municipal Pesticide Reduction Toolkit</a>\r\n\r\n<strong>Midwest Grows Green: A Guide to Growing an Environmentally-Friendly Lawn &amp; Garden: </strong>Reduce your contribution to climate change, help your lawn and garden adapt to a changing environment, and produce beautiful outdoor spaces.\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/WOY_Midwest_Grows_Green_Guide-final.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Midwest Grows Green Guide</a>\r\n[/one_half]\r\n\r\n[one_half_last]\r\n<strong>Human Health and Pesticides: Glyphosate and 2,4-D:</strong> This white paper discusses the common active ingredients in lawn pesticides of Glyphosate and 2,4-D and their human health impacts.\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/12/MPAC_WhitePaper-final-12.11.15.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Human Health and Pesticides White Paper</a>\r\n\r\n<strong>Resource Guide for Integrated Pest Management in Schools/Childcares:</strong> The materials your school needs to put an IPM program in place, including sample policies, forms and protocol.\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-Resource-Guide-for-IPM-in-Schools-and-Childcares.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Resource Guide for IPM in Schools and Childcares</a>\r\n\r\n<strong>Battling Bed Bugs in Chicago: </strong>View our bed bug policy, which demonstrates the necessity of taking action on this issue.\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/WIH_MPAC-Battling-Bed-Bugs-2015.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Battling Bed Bugs in Chicago: Making the Case for a Comprehensive Plan</a>\r\n[/one_half_last]\r\n<a name=\"Home\"></a>\r\n\r\n<hr />\r\n\r\nThe following publications are also available for download. Some publications offer downloads in multiple languages. <span class=\"orange\">Click or tap a title to start download.</span>\r\n<h3>In Your Home</h3>\r\n<h4>Indoors</h4>\r\n[one_half]\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/02/Bed-Bug-Ordinance-Essentials.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Bed Bug Ordinance Essentials\r\n</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/MPAC-BedBugOrdTen_FS_English.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Bed Bug Ordinance for Tenants English</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/MPAC-BedBugOrdTen_FS_French.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">French</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/MPAC-BedBugOrdTen_FS_Arabic1.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Arabic</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/MPAC-BedBugOrdTen_FS_Burmese.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Burmese</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/02/Bed-Bug-Ordinance-Essentials.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">\r\n</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-Chicago-Tenants-Rights-and-Responsibilities-English.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Chicago Tenants Rights and Responsibilities English</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-Chicago-Tenants-Rights-and-Responsibilities-Spanish.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Spanish</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/02/Bed-Bug-Ordinance-Essentials.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">\r\n</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-Bed-Bug-Checklist-for-Tenants-English.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Bed Bug Checklist for Tenants English</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-Bed-Bug-Checklist-for-Tenants-Spanish1.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Spanish</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-Bed-Bugs-Tenants-Checklist-Chinese.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Chinese</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-Bed-Bug-Checklist-for-Tenants-Polish.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Polish</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-Bed-Bug-Checklist-for-Tenants-French.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">French</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/02/Bed-Bug-Ordinance-Essentials.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">\r\n</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-How-Do-I-Know-Im-Receiving-IPM-Factsheet.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">How Do I Know I\'m Receiving IPM Factsheet</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/02/Bed-Bug-Ordinance-Essentials.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">\r\n</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/WI_MPAC-10-Steps-to-Pest-Control.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">10 Steps to Pest Control English</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-10-Steps-to-Pest-Control-Spanish.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Spanish</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/02/Bed-Bug-Ordinance-Essentials.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">\r\n</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/10/WI_MPAC-Pest-Control-Companies-That-Provide-IPM.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Pest Control Companies That Provide IPM</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/02/Bed-Bug-Ordinance-Essentials.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">\r\n</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-Ants.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Ants</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/02/Bed-Bug-Ordinance-Essentials.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">\r\n</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-Cockroaches.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Cockroaches</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/02/Bed-Bug-Ordinance-Essentials.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">\r\n</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-Mice-Factsheet.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Mice</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/02/Bed-Bug-Ordinance-Essentials.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">\r\n</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-Asthma-Pests-and-Pesticides.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Asthma, Pests, and Pesticides</a>\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-The-Truth-About-Head-Lice.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">The Truth About Head Lice</a>\r\n<h4>Outdoors</h4>\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-Products-for-Your-Natural-Lawn1.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Products for Your Natural Lawn</a>\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-NLC-Calendar.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Natural Lawn Care Calendar</a>\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/Read-Your-Weeds.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Read Your Weeds</a>\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-Mosquito-Misters-What-You-Need-to-Know.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Mosquito Misters: What You Need to Know</a>\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/Complete-Mosquito-Factsheet-Update.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Mosquitos and West Nile Virus</a>\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/MPAC-Pets-and-Pesticides-TU.pdf\" target=\"blank\">Pets and Pesticides</a>\r\n[/one_half]\r\n\r\n[one_half_last]\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-Reasonable-Accomodations-for-Renters.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Reasonable Accommodations for Renters with Pest Problems</a>\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-Bed-Bugs-English.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Bed Bugs English</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-Bed-Bugs-Spanish.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Spanish</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-Bed-Bugs-Chinese.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Chinese</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-Bed-Bugs-Polish.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Polish</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-Bed-Bugs-French.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">French</a>\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/WIH_MPAC-BITE-Back-all-vols-2015.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">B.I.T.E. Back! Newsletter All 2015 Volumes</a>\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/01/MPAC-BITE-Back-newsletters-vol.5-8.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">B.I.T.E. BACK! Newsletter vol. 5-8</a>\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/01/B.I.T.E.-BACK-NEWSLETTERS-VOL.9-11.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">B.I.T.E. BACK! Newsletter vol. 9-11</a>\r\n<a class=\"download\" title=\"B.I.T.E. Back! Volume 12\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/BiteBack_Fall13.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">B.I.T.E. Back! Newsletter vol. 12</a>\r\n<a class=\"download\" title=\"B.I.T.E. Back! Newsletter vol. 13\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/BiteBack_Spring14.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">B.I.T.E. Back! Newsletter vol. 13\r\n</a><a class=\"download\" title=\"B.I.T.E. Back! Newsletter vol. 13\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/BiteBack_vol14.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">B.I.T.E. Back! Newsletter vol.14</a>\r\n<a class=\"download\" title=\"B.I.T.E. Back! Newsletter vol. 15\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/WIH_MPAC-BITE-Back-newsletters-Vol.-15.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">B.I.T.E. Back! Newsletter vol.15</a>\r\n<a class=\"download\" title=\"B.I.T.E. Back! Newsletter vol. 16\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/WIH_MPAC-BITE-Back-newsletter-Vol.16.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">B.I.T.E. Back! Newsletter vol.16</a>\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-Bedbugs-Poster-English.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">B.I.T.E. Back! Bed Bug Poster English</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/MPAC-Bedbugs-Poster-Spanish.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Spanish</a>\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-Bed-Bug-Checklist-for-Landlords-English.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Bed Bug Checklist for Landlords English</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-Bed-Bug-Checklist-for-Landlords-Spanish.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Spanish</a>\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/How-to-Hire-a-PCO-For-BB.pdf\" target=\"blank\">How to Hire a Pest Control Operator For Bed Bugs</a>\r\n\r\n<a class=\"download\" style=\"line-height: 1.5em;\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/MPAC-Natural-Lawn-Care-for-Homeowners.pdf\">Natural Lawn Care for Homeowners</a>\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-Bee-Friendly-Garden.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">A Bee-Friendly Garden is a Pesticide-Free Garden</a>\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/MWGG_Brochure_final.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Midwest Grows Green Brochure</a>\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-Talking-to-Your-Neighbors-About-Pesticides1.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Talking to Your Neighbors About Pesticides</a>\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-Pesticide-Free-Zone-Sign-Factsheet.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Pesticide Free Zone Sign</a>\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/WOY_MPAC-Pesticide-Free-Zone-Sign-order-form-color.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Pesticide Free Zone Sign Order Form</a>\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/02/WOY_MPAC-Midwest-Natural-Lawn-Care-Companies3.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Midwest Natural Lawn Care Companies</a> <a name=\"Community\"></a>\r\n[/one_half_last]\r\n\r\n<hr />\r\n\r\n<h3>In Your Community</h3>\r\n[one_half]\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-The-Activists-Toolkit.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">The Activist\'s Toolkit</a>\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/Final-Toolkit-4-21-2014-NY.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Municipal Pesticide Reduction Toolkit</a>\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-Resource-Guide-for-IPM-in-Schools-and-Childcares.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Resource Guide for IPM in Schools and Childcares</a><strong>\r\n</strong><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-Healthy-Parks-Campaign.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Healthy Parks Campaign</a>\r\n[/one_half]\r\n\r\n[one_half_last]\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/ParentsRight-to-Know-NotificationGuidelines.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Parents\' Right to Know Notification Guidelines English</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/ParentsRight-to-Know-NotificationGuidelines-Spanish.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Spanish</a>\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/MPAC-Reducing-Pesticides-in-Schools-a-Parents-Guide.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Reducing Pesticides in Schools: A Parent\'s Guide</a>\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/MPAC-Bed-Bugs-in-Schools-and-Childcares.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Bed Bugs in Schools and Childcares\r\n</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/WOY_MPAC-Pesticide-Disposal-The-Right-Way.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Pesticide Disposal the Right Way</a>\r\n\r\n[/one_half_last]','Resources','','inherit','closed','open','','119-revision-v1','','','2016-05-23 16:38:16','2016-05-23 16:38:16','',119,'http://midwestpesticideaction.org/119-revision-v1/',0,'revision','',0),(3184,2,'2016-05-23 16:38:57','2016-05-23 16:38:57','<h2>Resources</h2>\r\nMidwest Pesticide Action Center has developed a number of toolkits, guides, and factsheets to help you reduce your exposure to pesticides. Our information empowers renters, homeowners, managers, parents, and decision-makers to make smart decisions that lead to healthier communities.\r\n\r\nContinue reading<a name=\"Features\"></a> for: <a href=\"#Features\">Feature Publications</a>, <a href=\"#Home\">In Your Home</a>, <a href=\"#Community\">In Your Community</a>\r\n\r\n<hr />\r\n\r\n<h3>Feature Publications</h3>\r\n[one_half]\r\n<strong>Activist’s Toolkit: </strong>The basics of natural lawn care, health benefits of switching to natural lawn care, and practical tools and example documents to use during a campaign.\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-The-Activists-Toolkit.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">The Activists Toolkit</a>\r\n\r\n<strong>Municipal Pesticide Reduction Toolkit:</strong> Information about pesticide reduction as a sustainable cost effective choice for municipal operations.\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/Final-Toolkit-4-21-2014-NY.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Municipal Pesticide Reduction Toolkit</a>\r\n\r\n<strong>Midwest Grows Green: A Guide to Growing an Environmentally-Friendly Lawn &amp; Garden: </strong>Reduce your contribution to climate change, help your lawn and garden adapt to a changing environment, and produce beautiful outdoor spaces.\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/WOY_Midwest_Grows_Green_Guide-final.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Midwest Grows Green Guide</a>\r\n[/one_half]\r\n\r\n[one_half_last]\r\n<strong>Human Health and Pesticides: Glyphosate and 2,4-D:</strong> This white paper discusses the common active ingredients in lawn pesticides of Glyphosate and 2,4-D and their human health impacts.\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/12/MPAC_WhitePaper-final-12.11.15.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Human Health and Pesticides White Paper</a>\r\n\r\n<strong>Resource Guide for Integrated Pest Management in Schools/Childcares:</strong> The materials your school needs to put an IPM program in place, including sample policies, forms and protocol.\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-Resource-Guide-for-IPM-in-Schools-and-Childcares.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Resource Guide for IPM in Schools and Childcares</a>\r\n\r\n<strong>Battling Bed Bugs in Chicago: </strong>View our bed bug policy, which demonstrates the necessity of taking action on this issue.\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/WIH_MPAC-Battling-Bed-Bugs-2015.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Battling Bed Bugs in Chicago: Making the Case for a Comprehensive Plan</a>\r\n[/one_half_last]\r\n<a name=\"Home\"></a>\r\n\r\n<hr />\r\n\r\nThe following publications are also available for download. Some publications offer downloads in multiple languages. <span class=\"orange\">Click or tap a title to start download.</span>\r\n<h3>In Your Home</h3>\r\n<h4>Indoors</h4>\r\n[one_half]\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/02/Bed-Bug-Ordinance-Essentials.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Bed Bug Ordinance Essentials\r\n</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/MPAC-BedBugOrdTen_FS_English.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Bed Bug Ordinance for Tenants English</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/MPAC-BedBugOrdTen_FS_French.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">French</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/MPAC-BedBugOrdTen_FS_Arabic1.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Arabic</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/MPAC-BedBugOrdTen_FS_Burmese.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Burmese</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/02/Bed-Bug-Ordinance-Essentials.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">\r\n</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-Chicago-Tenants-Rights-and-Responsibilities-English.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Chicago Tenants Rights and Responsibilities English</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-Chicago-Tenants-Rights-and-Responsibilities-Spanish.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Spanish</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/02/Bed-Bug-Ordinance-Essentials.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">\r\n</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-Bed-Bug-Checklist-for-Tenants-English.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Bed Bug Checklist for Tenants English</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-Bed-Bug-Checklist-for-Tenants-Spanish1.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Spanish</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-Bed-Bugs-Tenants-Checklist-Chinese.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Chinese</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-Bed-Bug-Checklist-for-Tenants-Polish.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Polish</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-Bed-Bug-Checklist-for-Tenants-French.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">French</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/02/Bed-Bug-Ordinance-Essentials.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">\r\n</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-How-Do-I-Know-Im-Receiving-IPM-Factsheet.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">How Do I Know I\'m Receiving IPM Factsheet</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/02/Bed-Bug-Ordinance-Essentials.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">\r\n</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/WI_MPAC-10-Steps-to-Pest-Control.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">10 Steps to Pest Control English</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-10-Steps-to-Pest-Control-Spanish.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Spanish</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/02/Bed-Bug-Ordinance-Essentials.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">\r\n</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/10/WI_MPAC-Pest-Control-Companies-That-Provide-IPM.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Pest Control Companies That Provide IPM</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/02/Bed-Bug-Ordinance-Essentials.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">\r\n</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-Ants.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Ants</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/02/Bed-Bug-Ordinance-Essentials.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">\r\n</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-Cockroaches.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Cockroaches</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/02/Bed-Bug-Ordinance-Essentials.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">\r\n</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-Mice-Factsheet.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Mice</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/02/Bed-Bug-Ordinance-Essentials.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">\r\n</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-Asthma-Pests-and-Pesticides.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Asthma, Pests, and Pesticides</a>\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-The-Truth-About-Head-Lice.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">The Truth About Head Lice</a>\r\n<h4>Outdoors</h4>\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-Products-for-Your-Natural-Lawn1.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Products for Your Natural Lawn</a>\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-NLC-Calendar.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Natural Lawn Care Calendar</a>\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/Read-Your-Weeds.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Read Your Weeds</a>\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-Mosquito-Misters-What-You-Need-to-Know.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Mosquito Misters: What You Need to Know</a>\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/Complete-Mosquito-Factsheet-Update.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Mosquitos and West Nile Virus</a>\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/MPAC-Pets-and-Pesticides-TU.pdf\" target=\"blank\">Pets and Pesticides</a>\r\n[/one_half]\r\n\r\n[one_half_last]\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-Reasonable-Accomodations-for-Renters.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Reasonable Accommodations for Renters with Pest Problems</a>\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-Bed-Bugs-English.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Bed Bugs English</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-Bed-Bugs-Spanish.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Spanish</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-Bed-Bugs-Chinese.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Chinese</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-Bed-Bugs-Polish.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Polish</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-Bed-Bugs-French.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">French</a>\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/WIH_MPAC-BITE-Back-all-vols-2015.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">B.I.T.E. Back! Newsletter All Volumes</a>\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/01/MPAC-BITE-Back-newsletters-vol.5-8.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">B.I.T.E. BACK! Newsletter vol. 5-8</a>\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/01/B.I.T.E.-BACK-NEWSLETTERS-VOL.9-11.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">B.I.T.E. BACK! Newsletter vol. 9-11</a>\r\n<a class=\"download\" title=\"B.I.T.E. Back! Volume 12\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/BiteBack_Fall13.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">B.I.T.E. Back! Newsletter vol. 12</a>\r\n<a class=\"download\" title=\"B.I.T.E. Back! Newsletter vol. 13\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/BiteBack_Spring14.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">B.I.T.E. Back! Newsletter vol. 13\r\n</a><a class=\"download\" title=\"B.I.T.E. Back! Newsletter vol. 13\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/BiteBack_vol14.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">B.I.T.E. Back! Newsletter vol.14</a>\r\n<a class=\"download\" title=\"B.I.T.E. Back! Newsletter vol. 15\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/WIH_MPAC-BITE-Back-newsletters-Vol.-15.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">B.I.T.E. Back! Newsletter vol.15</a>\r\n<a class=\"download\" title=\"B.I.T.E. Back! Newsletter vol. 16\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/WIH_MPAC-BITE-Back-newsletter-Vol.16.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">B.I.T.E. Back! Newsletter vol.16</a>\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-Bedbugs-Poster-English.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">B.I.T.E. Back! Bed Bug Poster English</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/MPAC-Bedbugs-Poster-Spanish.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Spanish</a>\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-Bed-Bug-Checklist-for-Landlords-English.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Bed Bug Checklist for Landlords English</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-Bed-Bug-Checklist-for-Landlords-Spanish.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Spanish</a>\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/How-to-Hire-a-PCO-For-BB.pdf\" target=\"blank\">How to Hire a Pest Control Operator For Bed Bugs</a>\r\n\r\n<a class=\"download\" style=\"line-height: 1.5em;\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/MPAC-Natural-Lawn-Care-for-Homeowners.pdf\">Natural Lawn Care for Homeowners</a>\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-Bee-Friendly-Garden.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">A Bee-Friendly Garden is a Pesticide-Free Garden</a>\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/MWGG_Brochure_final.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Midwest Grows Green Brochure</a>\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-Talking-to-Your-Neighbors-About-Pesticides1.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Talking to Your Neighbors About Pesticides</a>\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-Pesticide-Free-Zone-Sign-Factsheet.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Pesticide Free Zone Sign</a>\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/WOY_MPAC-Pesticide-Free-Zone-Sign-order-form-color.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Pesticide Free Zone Sign Order Form</a>\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/02/WOY_MPAC-Midwest-Natural-Lawn-Care-Companies3.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Midwest Natural Lawn Care Companies</a> <a name=\"Community\"></a>\r\n[/one_half_last]\r\n\r\n<hr />\r\n\r\n<h3>In Your Community</h3>\r\n[one_half]\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-The-Activists-Toolkit.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">The Activist\'s Toolkit</a>\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/Final-Toolkit-4-21-2014-NY.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Municipal Pesticide Reduction Toolkit</a>\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-Resource-Guide-for-IPM-in-Schools-and-Childcares.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Resource Guide for IPM in Schools and Childcares</a><strong>\r\n</strong><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-Healthy-Parks-Campaign.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Healthy Parks Campaign</a>\r\n[/one_half]\r\n\r\n[one_half_last]\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/ParentsRight-to-Know-NotificationGuidelines.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Parents\' Right to Know Notification Guidelines English</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/ParentsRight-to-Know-NotificationGuidelines-Spanish.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Spanish</a>\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/MPAC-Reducing-Pesticides-in-Schools-a-Parents-Guide.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Reducing Pesticides in Schools: A Parent\'s Guide</a>\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/MPAC-Bed-Bugs-in-Schools-and-Childcares.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Bed Bugs in Schools and Childcares\r\n</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/WOY_MPAC-Pesticide-Disposal-The-Right-Way.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Pesticide Disposal the Right Way</a>\r\n\r\n[/one_half_last]','Resources','','inherit','closed','open','','119-revision-v1','','','2016-05-23 16:38:57','2016-05-23 16:38:57','',119,'http://midwestpesticideaction.org/119-revision-v1/',0,'revision','',0),(3185,2,'2016-05-23 16:39:36','2016-05-23 16:39:36','<h2>Resources</h2>\r\nMidwest Pesticide Action Center has developed a number of toolkits, guides, and factsheets to help you reduce your exposure to pesticides. Our information empowers renters, homeowners, managers, parents, and decision-makers to make smart decisions that lead to healthier communities.\r\n\r\nContinue reading<a name=\"Features\"></a> for: <a href=\"#Features\">Feature Publications</a>, <a href=\"#Home\">In Your Home</a>, <a href=\"#Community\">In Your Community</a>\r\n\r\n<hr />\r\n\r\n<h3>Feature Publications</h3>\r\n[one_half]\r\n<strong>Activist’s Toolkit: </strong>The basics of natural lawn care, health benefits of switching to natural lawn care, and practical tools and example documents to use during a campaign.\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-The-Activists-Toolkit.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">The Activists Toolkit</a>\r\n\r\n<strong>Municipal Pesticide Reduction Toolkit:</strong> Information about pesticide reduction as a sustainable cost effective choice for municipal operations.\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/Final-Toolkit-4-21-2014-NY.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Municipal Pesticide Reduction Toolkit</a>\r\n\r\n<strong>Midwest Grows Green: A Guide to Growing an Environmentally-Friendly Lawn &amp; Garden: </strong>Reduce your contribution to climate change, help your lawn and garden adapt to a changing environment, and produce beautiful outdoor spaces.\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/WOY_Midwest_Grows_Green_Guide-final.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Midwest Grows Green Guide</a>\r\n[/one_half]\r\n\r\n[one_half_last]\r\n<strong>Human Health and Pesticides: Glyphosate and 2,4-D:</strong> This white paper discusses the common active ingredients in lawn pesticides of Glyphosate and 2,4-D and their human health impacts.\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/12/MPAC_WhitePaper-final-12.11.15.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Human Health and Pesticides White Paper</a>\r\n\r\n<strong>Resource Guide for Integrated Pest Management in Schools/Childcares:</strong> The materials your school needs to put an IPM program in place, including sample policies, forms and protocol.\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-Resource-Guide-for-IPM-in-Schools-and-Childcares.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Resource Guide for IPM in Schools and Childcares</a>\r\n\r\n<strong>Battling Bed Bugs in Chicago: </strong>View our bed bug policy, which demonstrates the necessity of taking action on this issue.\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/WIH_MPAC-Battling-Bed-Bugs-2015.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Battling Bed Bugs in Chicago: Making the Case for a Comprehensive Plan</a>\r\n[/one_half_last]\r\n<a name=\"Home\"></a>\r\n\r\n<hr />\r\n\r\nThe following publications are also available for download. Some publications offer downloads in multiple languages. <span class=\"orange\">Click or tap a title to start download.</span>\r\n<h3>In Your Home</h3>\r\n<h4>Indoors</h4>\r\n[one_half]\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/02/Bed-Bug-Ordinance-Essentials.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Bed Bug Ordinance Essentials\r\n</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/MPAC-BedBugOrdTen_FS_English.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Bed Bug Ordinance for Tenants English</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/MPAC-BedBugOrdTen_FS_French.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">French</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/MPAC-BedBugOrdTen_FS_Arabic1.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Arabic</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/MPAC-BedBugOrdTen_FS_Burmese.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Burmese</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/02/Bed-Bug-Ordinance-Essentials.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">\r\n</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-Chicago-Tenants-Rights-and-Responsibilities-English.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Chicago Tenants Rights and Responsibilities English</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-Chicago-Tenants-Rights-and-Responsibilities-Spanish.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Spanish</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/02/Bed-Bug-Ordinance-Essentials.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">\r\n</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-Bed-Bug-Checklist-for-Tenants-English.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Bed Bug Checklist for Tenants English</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-Bed-Bug-Checklist-for-Tenants-Spanish1.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Spanish</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-Bed-Bugs-Tenants-Checklist-Chinese.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Chinese</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-Bed-Bug-Checklist-for-Tenants-Polish.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Polish</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-Bed-Bug-Checklist-for-Tenants-French.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">French</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/02/Bed-Bug-Ordinance-Essentials.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">\r\n</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-How-Do-I-Know-Im-Receiving-IPM-Factsheet.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">How Do I Know I\'m Receiving IPM Factsheet</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/02/Bed-Bug-Ordinance-Essentials.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">\r\n</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/WI_MPAC-10-Steps-to-Pest-Control.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">10 Steps to Pest Control English</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-10-Steps-to-Pest-Control-Spanish.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Spanish</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/02/Bed-Bug-Ordinance-Essentials.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">\r\n</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/10/WI_MPAC-Pest-Control-Companies-That-Provide-IPM.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Pest Control Companies That Provide IPM</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/02/Bed-Bug-Ordinance-Essentials.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">\r\n</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-Ants.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Ants</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/02/Bed-Bug-Ordinance-Essentials.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">\r\n</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-Cockroaches.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Cockroaches</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/02/Bed-Bug-Ordinance-Essentials.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">\r\n</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-Mice-Factsheet.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Mice</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/02/Bed-Bug-Ordinance-Essentials.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">\r\n</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-Asthma-Pests-and-Pesticides.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Asthma, Pests, and Pesticides</a>\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-The-Truth-About-Head-Lice.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">The Truth About Head Lice</a>\r\n<h4>Outdoors</h4>\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-Products-for-Your-Natural-Lawn1.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Products for Your Natural Lawn</a>\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-NLC-Calendar.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Natural Lawn Care Calendar</a>\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/Read-Your-Weeds.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Read Your Weeds</a>\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-Mosquito-Misters-What-You-Need-to-Know.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Mosquito Misters: What You Need to Know</a>\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/Complete-Mosquito-Factsheet-Update.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Mosquitos and West Nile Virus</a>\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/MPAC-Pets-and-Pesticides-TU.pdf\" target=\"blank\">Pets and Pesticides</a>\r\n[/one_half]\r\n\r\n[one_half_last]\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-Reasonable-Accomodations-for-Renters.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Reasonable Accommodations for Renters with Pest Problems</a>\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-Bed-Bugs-English.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Bed Bugs English</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-Bed-Bugs-Spanish.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Spanish</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-Bed-Bugs-Chinese.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Chinese</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-Bed-Bugs-Polish.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Polish</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-Bed-Bugs-French.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">French</a>\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/WIH_MPAC-BITE-Back-all-vols-2015.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">B.I.T.E. Back! Newsletter All Volumes</a><a class=\"download\" title=\"B.I.T.E. Back! Newsletter vol. 13\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/BiteBack_Spring14.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">\r\n</a><a class=\"download\" title=\"B.I.T.E. Back! Newsletter vol. 13\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/BiteBack_vol14.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">B.I.T.E. Back! Newsletter vol.14</a>\r\n<a class=\"download\" title=\"B.I.T.E. Back! Newsletter vol. 15\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/WIH_MPAC-BITE-Back-newsletters-Vol.-15.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">B.I.T.E. Back! Newsletter vol.15</a>\r\n<a class=\"download\" title=\"B.I.T.E. Back! Newsletter vol. 16\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/WIH_MPAC-BITE-Back-newsletter-Vol.16.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">B.I.T.E. Back! Newsletter vol.16</a>\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-Bedbugs-Poster-English.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">B.I.T.E. Back! Bed Bug Poster English</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/MPAC-Bedbugs-Poster-Spanish.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Spanish</a>\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-Bed-Bug-Checklist-for-Landlords-English.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Bed Bug Checklist for Landlords English</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-Bed-Bug-Checklist-for-Landlords-Spanish.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Spanish</a>\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/How-to-Hire-a-PCO-For-BB.pdf\" target=\"blank\">How to Hire a Pest Control Operator For Bed Bugs</a>\r\n\r\n<a class=\"download\" style=\"line-height: 1.5em;\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/MPAC-Natural-Lawn-Care-for-Homeowners.pdf\">Natural Lawn Care for Homeowners</a>\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-Bee-Friendly-Garden.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">A Bee-Friendly Garden is a Pesticide-Free Garden</a>\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/MWGG_Brochure_final.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Midwest Grows Green Brochure</a>\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-Talking-to-Your-Neighbors-About-Pesticides1.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Talking to Your Neighbors About Pesticides</a>\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-Pesticide-Free-Zone-Sign-Factsheet.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Pesticide Free Zone Sign</a>\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/WOY_MPAC-Pesticide-Free-Zone-Sign-order-form-color.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Pesticide Free Zone Sign Order Form</a>\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/02/WOY_MPAC-Midwest-Natural-Lawn-Care-Companies3.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Midwest Natural Lawn Care Companies</a> <a name=\"Community\"></a>\r\n[/one_half_last]\r\n\r\n<hr />\r\n\r\n<h3>In Your Community</h3>\r\n[one_half]\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-The-Activists-Toolkit.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">The Activist\'s Toolkit</a>\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/Final-Toolkit-4-21-2014-NY.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Municipal Pesticide Reduction Toolkit</a>\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-Resource-Guide-for-IPM-in-Schools-and-Childcares.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Resource Guide for IPM in Schools and Childcares</a><strong>\r\n</strong><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-Healthy-Parks-Campaign.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Healthy Parks Campaign</a>\r\n[/one_half]\r\n\r\n[one_half_last]\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/ParentsRight-to-Know-NotificationGuidelines.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Parents\' Right to Know Notification Guidelines English</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/ParentsRight-to-Know-NotificationGuidelines-Spanish.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Spanish</a>\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/MPAC-Reducing-Pesticides-in-Schools-a-Parents-Guide.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Reducing Pesticides in Schools: A Parent\'s Guide</a>\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/MPAC-Bed-Bugs-in-Schools-and-Childcares.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Bed Bugs in Schools and Childcares\r\n</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/WOY_MPAC-Pesticide-Disposal-The-Right-Way.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Pesticide Disposal the Right Way</a>\r\n\r\n[/one_half_last]','Resources','','inherit','closed','open','','119-revision-v1','','','2016-05-23 16:39:36','2016-05-23 16:39:36','',119,'http://midwestpesticideaction.org/119-revision-v1/',0,'revision','',0),(3186,2,'2016-05-23 16:42:00','2016-05-23 16:42:00','<h2>Resources</h2>\r\nMidwest Pesticide Action Center has developed a number of toolkits, guides, and factsheets to help you reduce your exposure to pesticides. Our information empowers renters, homeowners, managers, parents, and decision-makers to make smart decisions that lead to healthier communities.\r\n\r\nContinue reading<a name=\"Features\"></a> for: <a href=\"#Features\">Feature Publications</a>, <a href=\"#Home\">In Your Home</a>, <a href=\"#Community\">In Your Community</a>\r\n\r\n<hr />\r\n\r\n<h3>Feature Publications</h3>\r\n[one_half]\r\n<strong>Activist’s Toolkit: </strong>The basics of natural lawn care, health benefits of switching to natural lawn care, and practical tools and example documents to use during a campaign.\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-The-Activists-Toolkit.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">The Activists Toolkit</a>\r\n\r\n<strong>Municipal Pesticide Reduction Toolkit:</strong> Information about pesticide reduction as a sustainable cost effective choice for municipal operations.\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/Final-Toolkit-4-21-2014-NY.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Municipal Pesticide Reduction Toolkit</a>\r\n\r\n<strong>Midwest Grows Green: A Guide to Growing an Environmentally-Friendly Lawn &amp; Garden: </strong>Reduce your contribution to climate change, help your lawn and garden adapt to a changing environment, and produce beautiful outdoor spaces.\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/WOY_Midwest_Grows_Green_Guide-final.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Midwest Grows Green Guide</a>\r\n[/one_half]\r\n\r\n[one_half_last]\r\n<strong>Human Health and Pesticides: Glyphosate and 2,4-D:</strong> This white paper discusses the common active ingredients in lawn pesticides of Glyphosate and 2,4-D and their human health impacts.\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/12/MPAC_WhitePaper-final-12.11.15.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Human Health and Pesticides White Paper</a>\r\n\r\n<strong>Resource Guide for Integrated Pest Management in Schools/Childcares:</strong> The materials your school needs to put an IPM program in place, including sample policies, forms and protocol.\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-Resource-Guide-for-IPM-in-Schools-and-Childcares.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Resource Guide for IPM in Schools and Childcares</a>\r\n\r\n<strong>Battling Bed Bugs in Chicago: </strong>View our bed bug policy, which demonstrates the necessity of taking action on this issue.\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/WIH_MPAC-Battling-Bed-Bugs-2015.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Battling Bed Bugs in Chicago: Making the Case for a Comprehensive Plan</a>\r\n[/one_half_last]\r\n<a name=\"Home\"></a>\r\n\r\n<hr />\r\n\r\nThe following publications are also available for download. Some publications offer downloads in multiple languages. <span class=\"orange\">Click or tap a title to start download.</span>\r\n<h3>In Your Home</h3>\r\n<h4>Indoors</h4>\r\n[one_half]\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/02/Bed-Bug-Ordinance-Essentials.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Bed Bug Ordinance Essentials\r\n</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/MPAC-BedBugOrdTen_FS_English.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Bed Bug Ordinance for Tenants English</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/MPAC-BedBugOrdTen_FS_French.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">French</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/MPAC-BedBugOrdTen_FS_Arabic1.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Arabic</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/MPAC-BedBugOrdTen_FS_Burmese.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Burmese</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/02/Bed-Bug-Ordinance-Essentials.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">\r\n</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-Chicago-Tenants-Rights-and-Responsibilities-English.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Chicago Tenants Rights and Responsibilities English</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-Chicago-Tenants-Rights-and-Responsibilities-Spanish.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Spanish</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/02/Bed-Bug-Ordinance-Essentials.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">\r\n</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-Bed-Bug-Checklist-for-Tenants-English.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Bed Bug Checklist for Tenants English</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-Bed-Bug-Checklist-for-Tenants-Spanish1.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Spanish</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-Bed-Bugs-Tenants-Checklist-Chinese.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Chinese</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-Bed-Bug-Checklist-for-Tenants-Polish.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Polish</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-Bed-Bug-Checklist-for-Tenants-French.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">French</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/02/Bed-Bug-Ordinance-Essentials.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">\r\n</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-How-Do-I-Know-Im-Receiving-IPM-Factsheet.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">How Do I Know I\'m Receiving IPM Factsheet</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/02/Bed-Bug-Ordinance-Essentials.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">\r\n</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/WI_MPAC-10-Steps-to-Pest-Control.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">10 Steps to Pest Control English</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-10-Steps-to-Pest-Control-Spanish.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Spanish</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/02/Bed-Bug-Ordinance-Essentials.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">\r\n</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/10/WI_MPAC-Pest-Control-Companies-That-Provide-IPM.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Pest Control Companies That Provide IPM</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/02/Bed-Bug-Ordinance-Essentials.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">\r\n</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-Ants.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Ants</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/02/Bed-Bug-Ordinance-Essentials.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">\r\n</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-Cockroaches.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Cockroaches</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/02/Bed-Bug-Ordinance-Essentials.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">\r\n</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-Mice-Factsheet.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Mice</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/02/Bed-Bug-Ordinance-Essentials.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">\r\n</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-Asthma-Pests-and-Pesticides.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Asthma, Pests, and Pesticides</a>\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-The-Truth-About-Head-Lice.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">The Truth About Head Lice</a>\r\n<h4>Outdoors</h4>\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-Products-for-Your-Natural-Lawn1.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Products for Your Natural Lawn</a>\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-NLC-Calendar.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Natural Lawn Care Calendar</a>\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/Read-Your-Weeds.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Read Your Weeds</a>\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-Mosquito-Misters-What-You-Need-to-Know.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Mosquito Misters: What You Need to Know</a>\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/Complete-Mosquito-Factsheet-Update.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Mosquitos and West Nile Virus</a>\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/MPAC-Pets-and-Pesticides-TU.pdf\" target=\"blank\">Pets and Pesticides</a>\r\n[/one_half]\r\n\r\n[one_half_last]\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-Reasonable-Accomodations-for-Renters.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Reasonable Accommodations for Renters with Pest Problems</a>\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-Bed-Bugs-English.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Bed Bugs English</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-Bed-Bugs-Spanish.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Spanish</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-Bed-Bugs-Chinese.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Chinese</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-Bed-Bugs-Polish.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Polish</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-Bed-Bugs-French.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">French</a>\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/WIH_MPAC-BITE-Back-all-vols-2015.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">B.I.T.E. Back! Newsletter All Volumes</a><a class=\"download\" title=\"B.I.T.E. Back! Newsletter vol. 13\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/BiteBack_Spring14.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">\r\n</a><a class=\"download\" title=\"B.I.T.E. Back! Newsletter vol. 13\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/BiteBack_vol14.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">B.I.T.E. Back! Newsletter vol.14</a>\r\n<a class=\"download\" title=\"B.I.T.E. Back! Newsletter vol. 15\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/WIH_MPAC-BITE-Back-newsletters-Vol.-15.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">B.I.T.E. Back! Newsletter vol.15</a>\r\n<a class=\"download\" title=\"B.I.T.E. Back! Newsletter vol. 16\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/WIH_MPAC-BITE-Back-newsletter-Vol.16.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">B.I.T.E. Back! Newsletter vol.16</a>\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-Bedbugs-Poster-English.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">B.I.T.E. Back! Bed Bug Poster English</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/MPAC-Bedbugs-Poster-Spanish.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Spanish</a>\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-Bed-Bug-Checklist-for-Landlords-English.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Bed Bug Checklist for Landlords English</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-Bed-Bug-Checklist-for-Landlords-Spanish.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Spanish</a>\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/How-to-Hire-a-PCO-For-BB.pdf\" target=\"blank\">How to Hire a Pest Control Operator For Bed Bugs</a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a class=\"download\" style=\"line-height: 1.5em;\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/MPAC-Natural-Lawn-Care-for-Homeowners.pdf\">Natural Lawn Care for Homeowners</a>\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-Bee-Friendly-Garden.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">A Bee-Friendly Garden is a Pesticide-Free Garden</a>\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/MWGG_Brochure_final.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Midwest Grows Green Brochure</a>\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-Talking-to-Your-Neighbors-About-Pesticides1.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Talking to Your Neighbors About Pesticides</a>\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-Pesticide-Free-Zone-Sign-Factsheet.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Pesticide Free Zone Sign</a>\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/WOY_MPAC-Pesticide-Free-Zone-Sign-order-form-color.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Pesticide Free Zone Sign Order Form</a>\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/02/WOY_MPAC-Midwest-Natural-Lawn-Care-Companies3.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Midwest Natural Lawn Care Companies</a> <a name=\"Community\"></a>\r\n[/one_half_last]\r\n\r\n<hr />\r\n\r\n<h3>In Your Community</h3>\r\n[one_half]\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-The-Activists-Toolkit.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">The Activist\'s Toolkit</a>\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/Final-Toolkit-4-21-2014-NY.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Municipal Pesticide Reduction Toolkit</a>\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-Resource-Guide-for-IPM-in-Schools-and-Childcares.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Resource Guide for IPM in Schools and Childcares</a><strong>\r\n</strong><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-Healthy-Parks-Campaign.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Healthy Parks Campaign</a>\r\n[/one_half]\r\n\r\n[one_half_last]\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/ParentsRight-to-Know-NotificationGuidelines.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Parents\' Right to Know Notification Guidelines English</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/ParentsRight-to-Know-NotificationGuidelines-Spanish.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Spanish</a>\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/MPAC-Reducing-Pesticides-in-Schools-a-Parents-Guide.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Reducing Pesticides in Schools: A Parent\'s Guide</a>\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/MPAC-Bed-Bugs-in-Schools-and-Childcares.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Bed Bugs in Schools and Childcares\r\n</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/WOY_MPAC-Pesticide-Disposal-The-Right-Way.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Pesticide Disposal the Right Way</a>\r\n\r\n[/one_half_last]','Resources','','inherit','closed','open','','119-revision-v1','','','2016-05-23 16:42:00','2016-05-23 16:42:00','',119,'http://midwestpesticideaction.org/119-revision-v1/',0,'revision','',0),(3187,2,'2016-05-23 16:45:14','2016-05-23 16:45:14','<h2>Resources</h2>\r\nMidwest Pesticide Action Center has developed a number of toolkits, guides, and factsheets to help you reduce your exposure to pesticides. Our information empowers renters, homeowners, managers, parents, and decision-makers to make smart decisions that lead to healthier communities.\r\n\r\nContinue reading<a name=\"Features\"></a> for: <a href=\"#Features\">Feature Publications</a>, <a href=\"#Home\">In Your Home</a>, <a href=\"#Community\">In Your Community</a>\r\n\r\n<hr />\r\n\r\n<h3>Feature Publications</h3>\r\n[one_half]\r\n<strong>Activist’s Toolkit: </strong>The basics of natural lawn care, health benefits of switching to natural lawn care, and practical tools and example documents to use during a campaign.\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-The-Activists-Toolkit.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">The Activists Toolkit</a>\r\n\r\n<strong>Municipal Pesticide Reduction Toolkit:</strong> Information about pesticide reduction as a sustainable cost effective choice for municipal operations.\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/Final-Toolkit-4-21-2014-NY.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Municipal Pesticide Reduction Toolkit</a>\r\n\r\n<strong>Midwest Grows Green: A Guide to Growing an Environmentally-Friendly Lawn &amp; Garden: </strong>Reduce your contribution to climate change, help your lawn and garden adapt to a changing environment, and produce beautiful outdoor spaces.\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/WOY_Midwest_Grows_Green_Guide-final.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Midwest Grows Green Guide</a>\r\n[/one_half]\r\n\r\n[one_half_last]\r\n<strong>Human Health and Pesticides: Glyphosate and 2,4-D:</strong> This white paper discusses the common active ingredients in lawn pesticides of Glyphosate and 2,4-D and their human health impacts.\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/12/MPAC_WhitePaper-final-12.11.15.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Human Health and Pesticides White Paper</a>\r\n\r\n<strong>Resource Guide for Integrated Pest Management in Schools/Childcares:</strong> The materials your school needs to put an IPM program in place, including sample policies, forms and protocol.\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-Resource-Guide-for-IPM-in-Schools-and-Childcares.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Resource Guide for IPM in Schools and Childcares</a>\r\n\r\n<strong>Battling Bed Bugs in Chicago: </strong>View our bed bug policy, which demonstrates the necessity of taking action on this issue.\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/WIH_MPAC-Battling-Bed-Bugs-2015.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Battling Bed Bugs in Chicago: Making the Case for a Comprehensive Plan</a>\r\n[/one_half_last]\r\n<a name=\"Home\"></a>\r\n\r\n<hr />\r\n\r\nThe following publications are also available for download. Some publications offer downloads in multiple languages. <span class=\"orange\">Click or tap a title to start download.</span>\r\n<h3>In Your Home</h3>\r\n<h4>Indoors</h4>\r\n[one_half]\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/02/Bed-Bug-Ordinance-Essentials.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Bed Bug Ordinance Essentials\r\n</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/MPAC-BedBugOrdTen_FS_English.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Bed Bug Ordinance for Tenants English</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/MPAC-BedBugOrdTen_FS_French.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">French</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/MPAC-BedBugOrdTen_FS_Arabic1.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Arabic</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/MPAC-BedBugOrdTen_FS_Burmese.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Burmese</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/02/Bed-Bug-Ordinance-Essentials.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">\r\n</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-Chicago-Tenants-Rights-and-Responsibilities-English.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Chicago Tenants Rights and Responsibilities English</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-Chicago-Tenants-Rights-and-Responsibilities-Spanish.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Spanish</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/02/Bed-Bug-Ordinance-Essentials.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">\r\n</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-Bed-Bug-Checklist-for-Tenants-English.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Bed Bug Checklist for Tenants English</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-Bed-Bug-Checklist-for-Tenants-Spanish1.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Spanish</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-Bed-Bugs-Tenants-Checklist-Chinese.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Chinese</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-Bed-Bug-Checklist-for-Tenants-Polish.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Polish</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-Bed-Bug-Checklist-for-Tenants-French.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">French</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/02/Bed-Bug-Ordinance-Essentials.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">\r\n</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-How-Do-I-Know-Im-Receiving-IPM-Factsheet.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">How Do I Know I\'m Receiving IPM Factsheet</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/02/Bed-Bug-Ordinance-Essentials.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">\r\n</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/WI_MPAC-10-Steps-to-Pest-Control.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">10 Steps to Pest Control English</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-10-Steps-to-Pest-Control-Spanish.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Spanish</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/02/Bed-Bug-Ordinance-Essentials.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">\r\n</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/10/WI_MPAC-Pest-Control-Companies-That-Provide-IPM.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Pest Control Companies That Provide IPM</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/02/Bed-Bug-Ordinance-Essentials.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">\r\n</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-Ants.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Ants</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/02/Bed-Bug-Ordinance-Essentials.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">\r\n</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-Cockroaches.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Cockroaches</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/02/Bed-Bug-Ordinance-Essentials.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">\r\n</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-Mice-Factsheet.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Mice</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/02/Bed-Bug-Ordinance-Essentials.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">\r\n</a>\r\n<h4>Outdoors</h4>\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-Products-for-Your-Natural-Lawn1.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Products for Your Natural Lawn</a>\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-NLC-Calendar.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Natural Lawn Care Calendar</a>\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/Read-Your-Weeds.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Read Your Weeds</a>\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-Mosquito-Misters-What-You-Need-to-Know.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Mosquito Misters: What You Need to Know</a>\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/Complete-Mosquito-Factsheet-Update.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Mosquitos and West Nile Virus</a>\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/MPAC-Pets-and-Pesticides-TU.pdf\" target=\"blank\">Pets and Pesticides</a>\r\n[/one_half]\r\n\r\n[one_half_last]\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-Asthma-Pests-and-Pesticides.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Asthma, Pests, and Pesticides</a>\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-The-Truth-About-Head-Lice.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">The Truth About Head Lice</a>\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-Reasonable-Accomodations-for-Renters.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Reasonable Accommodations for Renters with Pest Problems</a>\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-Bed-Bugs-English.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Bed Bugs English</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-Bed-Bugs-Spanish.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Spanish</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-Bed-Bugs-Chinese.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Chinese</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-Bed-Bugs-Polish.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Polish</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-Bed-Bugs-French.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">French</a>\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/WIH_MPAC-BITE-Back-all-vols-2015.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">B.I.T.E. Back! Newsletter All Volumes</a><a class=\"download\" title=\"B.I.T.E. Back! Newsletter vol. 13\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/BiteBack_Spring14.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">\r\n</a><a class=\"download\" title=\"B.I.T.E. Back! Newsletter vol. 13\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/BiteBack_vol14.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">B.I.T.E. Back! Newsletter vol.14</a>\r\n<a class=\"download\" title=\"B.I.T.E. Back! Newsletter vol. 15\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/WIH_MPAC-BITE-Back-newsletters-Vol.-15.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">B.I.T.E. Back! Newsletter vol.15</a>\r\n<a class=\"download\" title=\"B.I.T.E. Back! Newsletter vol. 16\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/WIH_MPAC-BITE-Back-newsletter-Vol.16.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">B.I.T.E. Back! Newsletter vol.16</a>\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-Bedbugs-Poster-English.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">B.I.T.E. Back! Bed Bug Poster English</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/MPAC-Bedbugs-Poster-Spanish.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Spanish</a>\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-Bed-Bug-Checklist-for-Landlords-English.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Bed Bug Checklist for Landlords English</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-Bed-Bug-Checklist-for-Landlords-Spanish.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Spanish</a>\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/How-to-Hire-a-PCO-For-BB.pdf\" target=\"blank\">How to Hire a Pest Control Operator For Bed Bugs</a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n\r\n<a class=\"download\" style=\"line-height: 1.5em;\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/MPAC-Natural-Lawn-Care-for-Homeowners.pdf\">Natural Lawn Care for Homeowners</a>\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-Bee-Friendly-Garden.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">A Bee-Friendly Garden is a Pesticide-Free Garden</a>\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/MWGG_Brochure_final.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Midwest Grows Green Brochure</a>\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-Talking-to-Your-Neighbors-About-Pesticides1.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Talking to Your Neighbors About Pesticides</a>\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-Pesticide-Free-Zone-Sign-Factsheet.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Pesticide Free Zone Sign</a>\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/WOY_MPAC-Pesticide-Free-Zone-Sign-order-form-color.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Pesticide Free Zone Sign Order Form</a>\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/02/WOY_MPAC-Midwest-Natural-Lawn-Care-Companies3.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Midwest Natural Lawn Care Companies</a> <a name=\"Community\"></a>\r\n[/one_half_last]\r\n\r\n<hr />\r\n\r\n<h3>In Your Community</h3>\r\n[one_half]\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-The-Activists-Toolkit.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">The Activist\'s Toolkit</a>\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/Final-Toolkit-4-21-2014-NY.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Municipal Pesticide Reduction Toolkit</a>\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-Resource-Guide-for-IPM-in-Schools-and-Childcares.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Resource Guide for IPM in Schools and Childcares</a><strong>\r\n</strong><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-Healthy-Parks-Campaign.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Healthy Parks Campaign</a>\r\n[/one_half]\r\n\r\n[one_half_last]\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/ParentsRight-to-Know-NotificationGuidelines.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Parents\' Right to Know Notification Guidelines English</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/ParentsRight-to-Know-NotificationGuidelines-Spanish.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Spanish</a>\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/MPAC-Reducing-Pesticides-in-Schools-a-Parents-Guide.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Reducing Pesticides in Schools: A Parent\'s Guide</a>\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/MPAC-Bed-Bugs-in-Schools-and-Childcares.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Bed Bugs in Schools and Childcares\r\n</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/WOY_MPAC-Pesticide-Disposal-The-Right-Way.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Pesticide Disposal the Right Way</a>\r\n\r\n[/one_half_last]','Resources','','inherit','closed','open','','119-revision-v1','','','2016-05-23 16:45:14','2016-05-23 16:45:14','',119,'http://midwestpesticideaction.org/119-revision-v1/',0,'revision','',0),(3188,2,'2016-05-23 16:46:17','2016-05-23 16:46:17','<h2>Resources</h2>\r\nMidwest Pesticide Action Center has developed a number of toolkits, guides, and factsheets to help you reduce your exposure to pesticides. Our information empowers renters, homeowners, managers, parents, and decision-makers to make smart decisions that lead to healthier communities.\r\n\r\nContinue reading<a name=\"Features\"></a> for: <a href=\"#Features\">Feature Publications</a>, <a href=\"#Home\">In Your Home</a>, <a href=\"#Community\">In Your Community</a>\r\n\r\n<hr />\r\n\r\n<h3>Feature Publications</h3>\r\n[one_half]\r\n<strong>Activist’s Toolkit: </strong>The basics of natural lawn care, health benefits of switching to natural lawn care, and practical tools and example documents to use during a campaign.\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-The-Activists-Toolkit.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">The Activists Toolkit</a>\r\n\r\n<strong>Municipal Pesticide Reduction Toolkit:</strong> Information about pesticide reduction as a sustainable cost effective choice for municipal operations.\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/Final-Toolkit-4-21-2014-NY.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Municipal Pesticide Reduction Toolkit</a>\r\n\r\n<strong>Midwest Grows Green: A Guide to Growing an Environmentally-Friendly Lawn &amp; Garden: </strong>Reduce your contribution to climate change, help your lawn and garden adapt to a changing environment, and produce beautiful outdoor spaces.\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/WOY_Midwest_Grows_Green_Guide-final.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Midwest Grows Green Guide</a>\r\n[/one_half]\r\n\r\n[one_half_last]\r\n<strong>Human Health and Pesticides: Glyphosate and 2,4-D:</strong> This white paper discusses the common active ingredients in lawn pesticides of Glyphosate and 2,4-D and their human health impacts.\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/12/MPAC_WhitePaper-final-12.11.15.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Human Health and Pesticides White Paper</a>\r\n\r\n<strong>Resource Guide for Integrated Pest Management in Schools/Childcares:</strong> The materials your school needs to put an IPM program in place, including sample policies, forms and protocol.\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-Resource-Guide-for-IPM-in-Schools-and-Childcares.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Resource Guide for IPM in Schools and Childcares</a>\r\n\r\n<strong>Battling Bed Bugs in Chicago: </strong>View our bed bug policy, which demonstrates the necessity of taking action on this issue.\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/WIH_MPAC-Battling-Bed-Bugs-2015.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Battling Bed Bugs in Chicago: Making the Case for a Comprehensive Plan</a>\r\n[/one_half_last]\r\n<a name=\"Home\"></a>\r\n\r\n<hr />\r\n\r\nThe following publications are also available for download. Some publications offer downloads in multiple languages. <span class=\"orange\">Click or tap a title to start download.</span>\r\n<h3>In Your Home</h3>\r\n<h4>Indoors</h4>\r\n[one_half]\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/02/Bed-Bug-Ordinance-Essentials.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Bed Bug Ordinance Essentials\r\n</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/MPAC-BedBugOrdTen_FS_English.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Bed Bug Ordinance for Tenants English</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/MPAC-BedBugOrdTen_FS_French.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">French</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/MPAC-BedBugOrdTen_FS_Arabic1.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Arabic</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/MPAC-BedBugOrdTen_FS_Burmese.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Burmese</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/02/Bed-Bug-Ordinance-Essentials.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">\r\n</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-Chicago-Tenants-Rights-and-Responsibilities-English.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Chicago Tenants Rights and Responsibilities English</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-Chicago-Tenants-Rights-and-Responsibilities-Spanish.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Spanish</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/02/Bed-Bug-Ordinance-Essentials.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">\r\n</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-Bed-Bug-Checklist-for-Tenants-English.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Bed Bug Checklist for Tenants English</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-Bed-Bug-Checklist-for-Tenants-Spanish1.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Spanish</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-Bed-Bugs-Tenants-Checklist-Chinese.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Chinese</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-Bed-Bug-Checklist-for-Tenants-Polish.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Polish</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-Bed-Bug-Checklist-for-Tenants-French.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">French</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/02/Bed-Bug-Ordinance-Essentials.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">\r\n</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-How-Do-I-Know-Im-Receiving-IPM-Factsheet.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">How Do I Know I\'m Receiving IPM Factsheet</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/02/Bed-Bug-Ordinance-Essentials.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">\r\n</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/WI_MPAC-10-Steps-to-Pest-Control.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">10 Steps to Pest Control English</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-10-Steps-to-Pest-Control-Spanish.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Spanish</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/02/Bed-Bug-Ordinance-Essentials.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">\r\n</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/10/WI_MPAC-Pest-Control-Companies-That-Provide-IPM.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Pest Control Companies That Provide IPM</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/02/Bed-Bug-Ordinance-Essentials.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">\r\n</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-Ants.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Ants</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/02/Bed-Bug-Ordinance-Essentials.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">\r\n</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-Cockroaches.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Cockroaches</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/02/Bed-Bug-Ordinance-Essentials.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">\r\n</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-Mice-Factsheet.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Mice</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/02/Bed-Bug-Ordinance-Essentials.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">\r\n</a>\r\n<h4>Outdoors</h4>\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-Products-for-Your-Natural-Lawn1.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Products for Your Natural Lawn</a>\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-NLC-Calendar.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Natural Lawn Care Calendar</a>\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/Read-Your-Weeds.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Read Your Weeds</a>\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-Mosquito-Misters-What-You-Need-to-Know.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Mosquito Misters: What You Need to Know</a>\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/Complete-Mosquito-Factsheet-Update.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Mosquitos and West Nile Virus</a>\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/MPAC-Pets-and-Pesticides-TU.pdf\" target=\"blank\">Pets and Pesticides</a>\r\n[/one_half]\r\n\r\n[one_half_last]\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-Asthma-Pests-and-Pesticides.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Asthma, Pests, and Pesticides</a>\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-The-Truth-About-Head-Lice.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">The Truth About Head Lice</a>\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-Reasonable-Accomodations-for-Renters.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Reasonable Accommodations for Renters with Pest Problems</a>\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-Bed-Bugs-English.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Bed Bugs English</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-Bed-Bugs-Spanish.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Spanish</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-Bed-Bugs-Chinese.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Chinese</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-Bed-Bugs-Polish.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Polish</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-Bed-Bugs-French.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">French</a>\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/WIH_MPAC-BITE-Back-all-vols-2015.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">B.I.T.E. Back! Newsletter All Volumes</a><a class=\"download\" title=\"B.I.T.E. Back! Newsletter vol. 13\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/BiteBack_Spring14.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">\r\n</a><a class=\"download\" title=\"B.I.T.E. Back! Newsletter vol. 13\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/BiteBack_vol14.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">B.I.T.E. Back! Newsletter vol.14</a>\r\n<a class=\"download\" title=\"B.I.T.E. Back! Newsletter vol. 15\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/WIH_MPAC-BITE-Back-newsletters-Vol.-15.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">B.I.T.E. Back! Newsletter vol.15</a>\r\n<a class=\"download\" title=\"B.I.T.E. Back! Newsletter vol. 16\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/WIH_MPAC-BITE-Back-newsletter-Vol.16.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">B.I.T.E. Back! Newsletter vol.16</a>\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-Bedbugs-Poster-English.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">B.I.T.E. Back! Bed Bug Poster English</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/MPAC-Bedbugs-Poster-Spanish.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Spanish</a>\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-Bed-Bug-Checklist-for-Landlords-English.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Bed Bug Checklist for Landlords English</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-Bed-Bug-Checklist-for-Landlords-Spanish.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Spanish</a>\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/How-to-Hire-a-PCO-For-BB.pdf\" target=\"blank\">How to Hire a Pest Control Operator For Bed Bugs</a>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a class=\"download\" style=\"line-height: 1.5em;\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/MPAC-Natural-Lawn-Care-for-Homeowners.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Natural Lawn Care for Homeowners</a>\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-Bee-Friendly-Garden.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">A Bee-Friendly Garden is a Pesticide-Free Garden</a>\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/MWGG_Brochure_final.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Midwest Grows Green Brochure</a>\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-Talking-to-Your-Neighbors-About-Pesticides1.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Talking to Your Neighbors About Pesticides</a>\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-Pesticide-Free-Zone-Sign-Factsheet.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Pesticide Free Zone Sign</a>\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/WOY_MPAC-Pesticide-Free-Zone-Sign-order-form-color.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Pesticide Free Zone Sign Order Form</a>\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/02/WOY_MPAC-Midwest-Natural-Lawn-Care-Companies3.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Midwest Natural Lawn Care Companies</a> <a name=\"Community\"></a>\r\n[/one_half_last]\r\n\r\n<hr />\r\n\r\n<h3>In Your Community</h3>\r\n[one_half]\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-The-Activists-Toolkit.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">The Activist\'s Toolkit</a>\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/Final-Toolkit-4-21-2014-NY.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Municipal Pesticide Reduction Toolkit</a>\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-Resource-Guide-for-IPM-in-Schools-and-Childcares.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Resource Guide for IPM in Schools and Childcares</a><strong>\r\n</strong><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/MPAC-Healthy-Parks-Campaign.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Healthy Parks Campaign</a>\r\n[/one_half]\r\n\r\n[one_half_last]\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/ParentsRight-to-Know-NotificationGuidelines.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Parents\' Right to Know Notification Guidelines English</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/ParentsRight-to-Know-NotificationGuidelines-Spanish.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Spanish</a>\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/MPAC-Reducing-Pesticides-in-Schools-a-Parents-Guide.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Reducing Pesticides in Schools: A Parent\'s Guide</a>\r\n<a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/MPAC-Bed-Bugs-in-Schools-and-Childcares.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Bed Bugs in Schools and Childcares\r\n</a><a class=\"download\" href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/WOY_MPAC-Pesticide-Disposal-The-Right-Way.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">Pesticide Disposal the Right Way</a>\r\n\r\n[/one_half_last]','Resources','','inherit','closed','open','','119-revision-v1','','','2016-05-23 16:46:17','2016-05-23 16:46:17','',119,'http://midwestpesticideaction.org/119-revision-v1/',0,'revision','',0),(3190,2,'2016-06-01 18:26:35','2016-06-01 18:26:35','<h3><img class=\"alignright wp-image-3193\" src=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/dandelion-1306911_1920.jpg\" alt=\"dandelion-1306911_1920\" width=\"332\" height=\"220\" /></h3>\r\n<h3>While beneficial to your body and soil, dandelions will not leave our dog house soon. MPAC\'s Ryan Anderson focuses on getting rid of them the safe way.</h3>\r\nFor the countless times I’ve discussed “natural” strategies to eliminate dandelions, I can’t recall a\r\nsingle question on how they first became a staple “weed” in our American lawns! Yes, we all know these yellow sunflowers use “parachutes” to spread their seeds in every which crack, crevice, and opening of your lawn, but did you know that this plant originates from Europe?\r\n\r\nSince the Puritans introduced them to the New World, dandelions have played a role in <a href=\"http://www.georgiawildlife.com/node/3007\" target=\"_blank\">American history</a>. During the civil war, Confederate soldiers replaced coffee with dried dandelion roots. Herbalists used the roots to treat <a href=\"http://umm.edu/health/medical/altmed/herb/dandelion\" target=\"_blank\">liver and gallbladder disease</a> and their leaves possess diuretic properties that increase the amount of urine in your body to improve appetite, digestion, and kidney function.\r\n\r\nEvery part of this so-called weed is edible and can add <a href=\"http://www.naturallivingideas.com/things-to-do-with-dandelions/\" target=\"_blank\">flavor and nutritional value</a> to your next salad, sandwich, and/or tea with its bounty of vitamins (A, B, C, and D) and minerals (iron, potassium, and zinc). Somewhere down the line, however, we stopped valuing these plants for their human health contributions and began typecasting them as an eyesore for our ideal green and lush lawns.\r\n\r\nKnowing its ability to improve human health, aerate your soil, and attract pest eating ladybugs, I would encourage you to embrace the dandelion. Nevertheless, I am not oblivious to the pressures forcing your hand to manage them.\r\n\r\nWhen contemplating how to get rid of dandelions, ask whether you want to apply the same control each year for the recurring dandelion symptom or do you want to tackle the root cause of the symptom and avoid repetition year after year? I can offer natural vinegar products and pre-emergent herbicides (i.e. <a href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/corn-gluten-meal-the-dos-and-donts/\" target=\"_blank\">corn gluten</a>) that will kill these broadleaf weeds, but, just like with synthetic herbicides, these products do not address the compacted, low pH, and nutrient imbalanced soil conditions that favor dandelion growth.\r\n\r\nLucky for you, many practices for growing strong and resilient turf limit these favorable soil conditions <a href=\"http://msue.anr.msu.edu/news/mow_high_for_weed_and_grub_control\" target=\"_blank\">starting with mowing high</a>. Maintaining tall grass takes away the sunlight and soil entryways that dandelion seeds need to germinate, reduces the likeliness of scalping/damage of grass cells, and increases root mass and strength. In addition to mowing high, great lawn managers will exercise every option for their turf to crowd out and prevent the germination of dandelions including overseeding gaps with grasses, leaving grass clippings to smother dandelion seeds and fertilizer, and watering deeply and infrequently to encourage deeper root growth.\r\n\r\nHealthy, strong, and dense turf will battle and prevent many dandelion seeds from germinating in your lawn, but when seeds breach this first line of defense you’ll need the reinforcements of the billions of bacteria, protozoa, nematodes, and arthropods inhabiting your soil. Keeping these reinforcements happy requires a keen sense for their preferred soil nutrients, maintenance, and structure. Organizations from our list of soil test providers will measure the essential soil factors for life and provide recommendations for how to best treat your soil for grass growth using many of the aeration and soil amendment techniques that I <a href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/worryaboutthebottomdwellers/\" target=\"_blank\">discussed in last month’s post</a>.\r\n\r\nBy following your soil test provider’s suggestions and maintaining the tall, dense turf I described earlier, you should see reductions in the dreaded yellow flower. Don\'t be discouraged if you do not see reductions this year. It takes time and care to build healthy, resilient soil and turf, especially for lawns that highly depended on synthetic fertilizers and pesticides previously.  For some lawn managers, this process may take between three and five years to holistically address dandelions, but once they see reductions and don’t have to spend all the time and money on year after year chemical control, it makes all that previous effort worth it.\r\n\r\nIf you have a dandelion presence now in your lawn, first try to establish a tolerance for it. A couple dandelions here and there will not bother anyone and can easily be managed manually.  For significant dandelion problems, we encourage you to apply an <a href=\"http://www.ipm.ucdavis.edu/PMG/PESTNOTES/pn7469.html\" target=\"_blank\">Integrated Pest Management approach</a> of limiting your chemical use for the problem and choosing a product with the least toxicity to human health and the environment.  Find tips on this approach <a href=\"https://d3n8a8pro7vhmx.cloudfront.net/ncap/pages/44/attachments/original/1429733273/dandelions.pdf?1429733273\" target=\"_blank\">here</a> and <a href=\"https://www.beyondpesticides.org/assets/media/documents/alternatives/factsheets/Least%20toxic%20control%20of%20weeds.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">here</a>. Finally some after the fact natural treatments include <a href=\"http://www.pesticide.org/vinegar_herbicides\" target=\"_blank\">vinegar</a>, <a href=\"http://diagnostics.montana.edu/plant/topics/herbicidalsoaps.html\" target=\"_blank\">herbicidal soaps</a>, and <a href=\"https://extension.umd.edu/sites/default/files/_docs/programs/ipmnet/Iron%20Herbicide%20Info-UMD-IPMnet.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">iron-based herbicides</a>.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;','Dealing with Dandelions','','publish','closed','open','','dealing-with-dandelions','','http://www.naturallivingideas.com/things-to-do-with-dandelions/\nhttp://midwestpesticideaction.org/corn-gluten-meal-the-dos-and-donts/\nhttp://midwestpesticideaction.org/worryaboutthebottomdwellers/','2016-06-01 18:27:09','2016-06-01 18:27:09','',0,'http://midwestpesticideaction.org/?p=3190',0,'post','',2),(3191,2,'2016-05-31 16:59:25','2016-05-31 16:59:25','<h2>June 2016 post</h2>\r\nFor the countless times I’ve discussed “natural” strategies to eliminate dandelions, I can’t recall a single question on how they first became a staple “weed” in our American lawns! Yes, we all know these yellow sunflowers use “parachutes” to spread their seeds in every which crack, crevice, and opening of your lawn, but did you know that this abundant plant species originates from Europe?\r\n\r\nSince the Puritans introduced them to the New World, dandelions have played a role in <a href=\"http://www.georgiawildlife.com/node/3007\">American history</a>. During the civil war, Confederate soldiers replaced coffee with dried dandelion roots. Herbalists used the roots to treat <a href=\"http://umm.edu/health/medical/altmed/herb/dandelion\">liver and gallbladder disease</a>, since their leaves possess diuretic properties that increase the amount of urine in your body to improve appetite, digestion, and kidney function.\r\n\r\nEvery part of this so-called weed is edible and can add <a href=\"http://www.naturallivingideas.com/things-to-do-with-dandelions/\">flavor and nutritional value</a> to your next salad, sandwich, and/or tea with its bounty of vitamins (A, B, C, and D) and minerals (iron, potassium, and zinc). Somewhere down the line, however, we stopped valuing these plants for their human health contributions and began typecasting them as an eyesore for our ideal green and lush lawns.\r\n\r\nKnowing its ability to improve human health, aerate your soil, and attract pest eating ladybugs, I would encourage you to embrace the dandelion. Nevertheless, I am not oblivious to the pressures forcing your hand to manage them.\r\n\r\nWhen contemplating how to get rid of dandelions, ask whether you want to apply the same control each year for the recurring dandelion symptom or do you want to tackle the root cause of the symptom and avoid repetition year after year? I can offer natural vinegar products and pre-emergent herbicides (i.e. <a href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/corn-gluten-meal-the-dos-and-donts/\">corn gluten</a>) that will kill these broadleaf weeds, but, just like with synthetic herbicides, these products do not address compacted, low pH, and nutrient imbalanced soil conditions that favor dandelion growth.\r\n\r\nLucky for you, many practices for growing strong and resilient turf limit these favorable soil conditions <a href=\"http://msue.anr.msu.edu/news/mow_high_for_weed_and_grub_control\">starting with mowing high</a>. Maintaining tall grass takes away the sunlight and soil entryways that dandelion seeds need to germinate, reduces the likeliness of scalping/damage of grass cells, and increases root mass and strength. In addition to mowing high, great lawn managers will exercise every option for their turf to crowd out and prevent the germination of dandelions including overseeding gaps with grasses, leaving grass clippings to smother dandelion seeds and fertilizer, and watering deeply and infrequently to encourage deeper root growth.\r\n\r\nHealthy, strong, and dense turf will battle and prevent many dandelion seeds from germinating in your lawn, but when seeds breach this first line of defense you’ll need the reinforcements of the billions of bacteria, protozoa, nematodes, and arthropods inhabiting your soil. Keeping these reinforcements happy requires a keen sense for their preferred soil nutrients, maintenance, and structure. Organizations from our list of soil test providers will measure the essential soil factors for life and provide recommendations for how to best treat your soil for grass growth using many of the aeration and soil amendment techniques that I <a href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/worryaboutthebottomdwellers/\">discussed in last month’s post</a>.\r\n\r\nBy applying your soil test provider’s suggestions and maintaining the tall, dense turf I described earlier, you should see reductions in the dreaded yellow flower. If you do not see reductions this year don’t be discouraged. It takes time and care to build-up healthy, resilient soil and turf, especially if the lawn highly depended on synthetic fertilizers and pesticides for growth previously.  For some lawn managers, this process may take between three and five years to holistically address dandelions, but once they see reductions and don’t have to spend all the time and money on year after year chemical control, it makes all that previous effort worth it.\r\n\r\nIf you have a dandelion presence now in your lawn, first try to establish a tolerance for it. A couple dandelions here and there will not bother anyone and can easily be managed manually.  For significant dandelion problems, we encourage you to apply an <a href=\"http://www.ipm.ucdavis.edu/PMG/PESTNOTES/pn7469.html\">Integrated Pest Management approach</a> of limiting your chemical use for the problem and choosing a product with the least toxicity to human health and the environment.  Find tips on this approach <a href=\"https://d3n8a8pro7vhmx.cloudfront.net/ncap/pages/44/attachments/original/1429733273/dandelions.pdf?1429733273\">here</a> and <a href=\"https://www.beyondpesticides.org/assets/media/documents/alternatives/factsheets/Least%20toxic%20control%20of%20weeds.pdf\">here</a>. Finally some after the fact natural treatments include <a href=\"http://www.pesticide.org/vinegar_herbicides\">vinegar</a>, <a href=\"http://diagnostics.montana.edu/plant/topics/herbicidalsoaps.html\">herbicidal soaps</a>, and <a href=\"https://extension.umd.edu/sites/default/files/_docs/programs/ipmnet/Iron%20Herbicide%20Info-UMD-IPMnet.pdf\">iron-based herbicides</a>.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;','June 2016','','inherit','closed','open','','3190-revision-v1','','','2016-05-31 16:59:25','2016-05-31 16:59:25','',3190,'http://midwestpesticideaction.org/3190-revision-v1/',0,'revision','',0),(3192,2,'2016-05-31 17:03:42','2016-05-31 17:03:42','','dandelion-761104_1920','','inherit','closed','open','','dandelion-761104_1920','','','2016-05-31 17:03:42','2016-05-31 17:03:42','',3190,'http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/dandelion-761104_1920.jpg',0,'attachment','image/jpeg',0),(3193,2,'2016-05-31 17:03:53','2016-05-31 17:03:53','','dandelion-1306911_1920','These are Dandelions','inherit','closed','open','','dandelion-1306911_1920','','','2016-05-31 17:03:53','2016-05-31 17:03:53','',3190,'http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/dandelion-1306911_1920.jpg',0,'attachment','image/jpeg',0),(3194,2,'2016-05-31 17:14:55','2016-05-31 17:14:55','<h2>June 2016 post</h2>\r\n<img class=\"alignright wp-image-3193\" src=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/dandelion-1306911_1920.jpg\" alt=\"dandelion-1306911_1920\" width=\"331\" height=\"220\" />For the countless times I’ve discussed “natural” strategies to eliminate dandelions, I can’t recall a single question on how they first became a staple “weed” in our American lawns! Yes, we all know these yellow sunflowers use “parachutes” to spread their seeds in every which crack, crevice, and opening of your lawn, but did you know that this abundant plant species originates from Europe?\r\n\r\nSince the Puritans introduced them to the New World, dandelions have played a role in <a href=\"http://www.georgiawildlife.com/node/3007\">American history</a>. During the civil war, Confederate soldiers replaced coffee with dried dandelion roots. Herbalists used the roots to treat <a href=\"http://umm.edu/health/medical/altmed/herb/dandelion\">liver and gallbladder disease</a>, since their leaves possess diuretic properties that increase the amount of urine in your body to improve appetite, digestion, and kidney function.\r\n\r\nEvery part of this so-called weed is edible and can add <a href=\"http://www.naturallivingideas.com/things-to-do-with-dandelions/\">flavor and nutritional value</a> to your next salad, sandwich, and/or tea with its bounty of vitamins (A, B, C, and D) and minerals (iron, potassium, and zinc). Somewhere down the line, however, we stopped valuing these plants for their human health contributions and began typecasting them as an eyesore for our ideal green and lush lawns.\r\n\r\nKnowing its ability to improve human health, aerate your soil, and attract pest eating ladybugs, I would encourage you to embrace the dandelion. Nevertheless, I am not oblivious to the pressures forcing your hand to manage them.\r\n\r\nWhen contemplating how to get rid of dandelions, ask whether you want to apply the same control each year for the recurring dandelion symptom or do you want to tackle the root cause of the symptom and avoid repetition year after year? I can offer natural vinegar products and pre-emergent herbicides (i.e. <a href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/corn-gluten-meal-the-dos-and-donts/\">corn gluten</a>) that will kill these broadleaf weeds, but, just like with synthetic herbicides, these products do not address compacted, low pH, and nutrient imbalanced soil conditions that favor dandelion growth.\r\n\r\nLucky for you, many practices for growing strong and resilient turf limit these favorable soil conditions <a href=\"http://msue.anr.msu.edu/news/mow_high_for_weed_and_grub_control\">starting with mowing high</a>. Maintaining tall grass takes away the sunlight and soil entryways that dandelion seeds need to germinate, reduces the likeliness of scalping/damage of grass cells, and increases root mass and strength. In addition to mowing high, great lawn managers will exercise every option for their turf to crowd out and prevent the germination of dandelions including overseeding gaps with grasses, leaving grass clippings to smother dandelion seeds and fertilizer, and watering deeply and infrequently to encourage deeper root growth.\r\n\r\nHealthy, strong, and dense turf will battle and prevent many dandelion seeds from germinating in your lawn, but when seeds breach this first line of defense you’ll need the reinforcements of the billions of bacteria, protozoa, nematodes, and arthropods inhabiting your soil. Keeping these reinforcements happy requires a keen sense for their preferred soil nutrients, maintenance, and structure. Organizations from our list of soil test providers will measure the essential soil factors for life and provide recommendations for how to best treat your soil for grass growth using many of the aeration and soil amendment techniques that I <a href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/worryaboutthebottomdwellers/\">discussed in last month’s post</a>.\r\n\r\nBy applying your soil test provider’s suggestions and maintaining the tall, dense turf I described earlier, you should see reductions in the dreaded yellow flower. If you do not see reductions this year don’t be discouraged. It takes time and care to build-up healthy, resilient soil and turf, especially if the lawn highly depended on synthetic fertilizers and pesticides for growth previously.  For some lawn managers, this process may take between three and five years to holistically address dandelions, but once they see reductions and don’t have to spend all the time and money on year after year chemical control, it makes all that previous effort worth it.\r\n\r\nIf you have a dandelion presence now in your lawn, first try to establish a tolerance for it. A couple dandelions here and there will not bother anyone and can easily be managed manually.  For significant dandelion problems, we encourage you to apply an <a href=\"http://www.ipm.ucdavis.edu/PMG/PESTNOTES/pn7469.html\">Integrated Pest Management approach</a> of limiting your chemical use for the problem and choosing a product with the least toxicity to human health and the environment.  Find tips on this approach <a href=\"https://d3n8a8pro7vhmx.cloudfront.net/ncap/pages/44/attachments/original/1429733273/dandelions.pdf?1429733273\">here</a> and <a href=\"https://www.beyondpesticides.org/assets/media/documents/alternatives/factsheets/Least%20toxic%20control%20of%20weeds.pdf\">here</a>. Finally some after the fact natural treatments include <a href=\"http://www.pesticide.org/vinegar_herbicides\">vinegar</a>, <a href=\"http://diagnostics.montana.edu/plant/topics/herbicidalsoaps.html\">herbicidal soaps</a>, and <a href=\"https://extension.umd.edu/sites/default/files/_docs/programs/ipmnet/Iron%20Herbicide%20Info-UMD-IPMnet.pdf\">iron-based herbicides</a>.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;','June 2016','','inherit','closed','open','','3190-revision-v1','','','2016-05-31 17:14:55','2016-05-31 17:14:55','',3190,'http://midwestpesticideaction.org/3190-revision-v1/',0,'revision','',0),(3195,2,'2016-05-31 17:16:59','2016-05-31 17:16:59','<h2>June 2016 blog post</h2>\r\n<img class=\"alignright wp-image-3193\" src=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/dandelion-1306911_1920.jpg\" alt=\"dandelion-1306911_1920\" width=\"331\" height=\"220\" />For the countless times I’ve discussed “natural” strategies to eliminate dandelions, I can’t recall a single question on how they first became a staple “weed” in our American lawns! Yes, we all know these yellow sunflowers use “parachutes” to spread their seeds in every which crack, crevice, and opening of your lawn, but did you know that this abundant plant species originates from Europe?\r\n\r\nSince the Puritans introduced them to the New World, dandelions have played a role in <a href=\"http://www.georgiawildlife.com/node/3007\">American history</a>. During the civil war, Confederate soldiers replaced coffee with dried dandelion roots. Herbalists used the roots to treat <a href=\"http://umm.edu/health/medical/altmed/herb/dandelion\">liver and gallbladder disease</a>, since their leaves possess diuretic properties that increase the amount of urine in your body to improve appetite, digestion, and kidney function.\r\n\r\nEvery part of this so-called weed is edible and can add <a href=\"http://www.naturallivingideas.com/things-to-do-with-dandelions/\">flavor and nutritional value</a> to your next salad, sandwich, and/or tea with its bounty of vitamins (A, B, C, and D) and minerals (iron, potassium, and zinc). Somewhere down the line, however, we stopped valuing these plants for their human health contributions and began typecasting them as an eyesore for our ideal green and lush lawns.\r\n\r\nKnowing its ability to improve human health, aerate your soil, and attract pest eating ladybugs, I would encourage you to embrace the dandelion. Nevertheless, I am not oblivious to the pressures forcing your hand to manage them.\r\n\r\nWhen contemplating how to get rid of dandelions, ask whether you want to apply the same control each year for the recurring dandelion symptom or do you want to tackle the root cause of the symptom and avoid repetition year after year? I can offer natural vinegar products and pre-emergent herbicides (i.e. <a href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/corn-gluten-meal-the-dos-and-donts/\">corn gluten</a>) that will kill these broadleaf weeds, but, just like with synthetic herbicides, these products do not address compacted, low pH, and nutrient imbalanced soil conditions that favor dandelion growth.\r\n\r\nLucky for you, many practices for growing strong and resilient turf limit these favorable soil conditions <a href=\"http://msue.anr.msu.edu/news/mow_high_for_weed_and_grub_control\">starting with mowing high</a>. Maintaining tall grass takes away the sunlight and soil entryways that dandelion seeds need to germinate, reduces the likeliness of scalping/damage of grass cells, and increases root mass and strength. In addition to mowing high, great lawn managers will exercise every option for their turf to crowd out and prevent the germination of dandelions including overseeding gaps with grasses, leaving grass clippings to smother dandelion seeds and fertilizer, and watering deeply and infrequently to encourage deeper root growth.\r\n\r\nHealthy, strong, and dense turf will battle and prevent many dandelion seeds from germinating in your lawn, but when seeds breach this first line of defense you’ll need the reinforcements of the billions of bacteria, protozoa, nematodes, and arthropods inhabiting your soil. Keeping these reinforcements happy requires a keen sense for their preferred soil nutrients, maintenance, and structure. Organizations from our list of soil test providers will measure the essential soil factors for life and provide recommendations for how to best treat your soil for grass growth using many of the aeration and soil amendment techniques that I <a href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/worryaboutthebottomdwellers/\">discussed in last month’s post</a>.\r\n\r\nBy applying your soil test provider’s suggestions and maintaining the tall, dense turf I described earlier, you should see reductions in the dreaded yellow flower. If you do not see reductions this year don’t be discouraged. It takes time and care to build-up healthy, resilient soil and turf, especially if the lawn highly depended on synthetic fertilizers and pesticides for growth previously.  For some lawn managers, this process may take between three and five years to holistically address dandelions, but once they see reductions and don’t have to spend all the time and money on year after year chemical control, it makes all that previous effort worth it.\r\n\r\nIf you have a dandelion presence now in your lawn, first try to establish a tolerance for it. A couple dandelions here and there will not bother anyone and can easily be managed manually.  For significant dandelion problems, we encourage you to apply an <a href=\"http://www.ipm.ucdavis.edu/PMG/PESTNOTES/pn7469.html\">Integrated Pest Management approach</a> of limiting your chemical use for the problem and choosing a product with the least toxicity to human health and the environment.  Find tips on this approach <a href=\"https://d3n8a8pro7vhmx.cloudfront.net/ncap/pages/44/attachments/original/1429733273/dandelions.pdf?1429733273\">here</a> and <a href=\"https://www.beyondpesticides.org/assets/media/documents/alternatives/factsheets/Least%20toxic%20control%20of%20weeds.pdf\">here</a>. Finally some after the fact natural treatments include <a href=\"http://www.pesticide.org/vinegar_herbicides\">vinegar</a>, <a href=\"http://diagnostics.montana.edu/plant/topics/herbicidalsoaps.html\">herbicidal soaps</a>, and <a href=\"https://extension.umd.edu/sites/default/files/_docs/programs/ipmnet/Iron%20Herbicide%20Info-UMD-IPMnet.pdf\">iron-based herbicides</a>.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;','June 2016','','inherit','closed','open','','3190-revision-v1','','','2016-05-31 17:16:59','2016-05-31 17:16:59','',3190,'http://midwestpesticideaction.org/3190-revision-v1/',0,'revision','',0),(3196,2,'2016-05-31 19:47:12','2016-05-31 19:47:12','<h2>June 2016 blog post</h2>\r\n<img class=\"alignright wp-image-3193\" src=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/dandelion-1306911_1920.jpg\" alt=\"dandelion-1306911_1920\" width=\"331\" height=\"220\" />For the countless times I’ve discussed “natural” strategies to eliminate dandelions, I can’t recall a single question on how they first became a staple “weed” in our American lawns! Yes, we all know these yellow sunflowers use “parachutes” to spread their seeds in every which crack, crevice, and opening of your lawn, but did you know that this abundant plant species originates from Europe?\r\n\r\nSince the Puritans introduced them to the New World, dandelions have played a role in <a href=\"http://www.georgiawildlife.com/node/3007\">American history</a>. During the civil war, Confederate soldiers replaced coffee with dried dandelion roots. Herbalists used the roots to treat <a href=\"http://umm.edu/health/medical/altmed/herb/dandelion\">liver and gallbladder disease</a>, since their leaves possess diuretic properties that increase the amount of urine in your body to improve appetite, digestion, and kidney function.\r\n\r\nEvery part of this so-called weed is edible and can add <a href=\"http://www.naturallivingideas.com/things-to-do-with-dandelions/\">flavor and nutritional value</a> to your next salad, sandwich, and/or tea with its bounty of vitamins (A, B, C, and D) and minerals (iron, potassium, and zinc). Somewhere down the line, however, we stopped valuing these plants for their human health contributions and began typecasting them as an eyesore for our ideal green and lush lawns.\r\n\r\nKnowing its ability to improve human health, aerate your soil, and attract pest eating ladybugs, I would encourage you to embrace the dandelion. Nevertheless, I am not oblivious to the pressures forcing your hand to manage them.\r\n\r\nWhen contemplating how to get rid of dandelions, ask whether you want to apply the same control each year for the recurring dandelion symptom or do you want to tackle the root cause of the symptom and avoid repetition year after year? I can offer natural vinegar products and pre-emergent herbicides (i.e. <a href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/corn-gluten-meal-the-dos-and-donts/\">corn gluten</a>) that will kill these broadleaf weeds, but, just like with synthetic herbicides, these products do not address compacted, low pH, and nutrient imbalanced soil conditions that favor dandelion growth.\r\n\r\nLucky for you, many practices for growing strong and resilient turf limit these favorable soil conditions <a href=\"http://msue.anr.msu.edu/news/mow_high_for_weed_and_grub_control\">starting with mowing high</a>. Maintaining tall grass takes away the sunlight and soil entryways that dandelion seeds need to germinate, reduces the likeliness of scalping/damage of grass cells, and increases root mass and strength. In addition to mowing high, great lawn managers will exercise every option for their turf to crowd out and prevent the germination of dandelions including overseeding gaps with grasses, leaving grass clippings to smother dandelion seeds and fertilizer, and watering deeply and infrequently to encourage deeper root growth.\r\n\r\nHealthy, strong, and dense turf will battle and prevent many dandelion seeds from germinating in your lawn, but when seeds breach this first line of defense you’ll need the reinforcements of the billions of bacteria, protozoa, nematodes, and arthropods inhabiting your soil. Keeping these reinforcements happy requires a keen sense for their preferred soil nutrients, maintenance, and structure. Organizations from our list of soil test providers will measure the essential soil factors for life and provide recommendations for how to best treat your soil for grass growth using many of the aeration and soil amendment techniques that I <a href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/worryaboutthebottomdwellers/\">discussed in last month’s post</a>.\r\n\r\nBy applying your soil test provider’s suggestions and maintaining the tall, dense turf I described earlier, you should see reductions in the dreaded yellow flower. If you do not see reductions this year don’t be discouraged. It takes time and care to build-up healthy, resilient soil and turf, especially if the lawn highly depended on synthetic fertilizers and pesticides for growth previously.  For some lawn managers, this process may take between three and five years to holistically address dandelions, but once they see reductions and don’t have to spend all the time and money on year after year chemical control, it makes all that previous effort worth it.\r\n\r\nIf you have a dandelion presence now in your lawn, first try to establish a tolerance for it. A couple dandelions here and there will not bother anyone and can easily be managed manually.  For significant dandelion problems, we encourage you to apply an <a href=\"http://www.ipm.ucdavis.edu/PMG/PESTNOTES/pn7469.html\">Integrated Pest Management approach</a> of limiting your chemical use for the problem and choosing a product with the least toxicity to human health and the environment.  Find tips on this approach <a href=\"https://d3n8a8pro7vhmx.cloudfront.net/ncap/pages/44/attachments/original/1429733273/dandelions.pdf?1429733273\">here</a> and <a href=\"https://www.beyondpesticides.org/assets/media/documents/alternatives/factsheets/Least%20toxic%20control%20of%20weeds.pdf\">here</a>. Finally some after the fact natural treatments include <a href=\"http://www.pesticide.org/vinegar_herbicides\">vinegar</a>, <a href=\"http://diagnostics.montana.edu/plant/topics/herbicidalsoaps.html\">herbicidal soaps</a>, and <a href=\"https://extension.umd.edu/sites/default/files/_docs/programs/ipmnet/Iron%20Herbicide%20Info-UMD-IPMnet.pdf\">iron-based herbicides</a>.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;','','','inherit','closed','open','','3190-revision-v1','','','2016-05-31 19:47:12','2016-05-31 19:47:12','',3190,'http://midwestpesticideaction.org/3190-revision-v1/',0,'revision','',0),(3197,2,'2016-05-31 19:50:34','2016-05-31 19:50:34','<img class=\"alignright wp-image-3193\" src=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/dandelion-1306911_1920.jpg\" alt=\"dandelion-1306911_1920\" width=\"331\" height=\"220\" />For the countless times I’ve discussed “natural” strategies to eliminate dandelions, I can’t recall a single question on how they first became a staple “weed” in our American lawns! Yes, we all know these yellow sunflowers use “parachutes” to spread their seeds in every which crack, crevice, and opening of your lawn, but did you know that this abundant plant species originates from Europe?\r\n\r\nSince the Puritans introduced them to the New World, dandelions have played a role in <a href=\"http://www.georgiawildlife.com/node/3007\">American history</a>. During the civil war, Confederate soldiers replaced coffee with dried dandelion roots. Herbalists used the roots to treat <a href=\"http://umm.edu/health/medical/altmed/herb/dandelion\">liver and gallbladder disease</a>, since their leaves possess diuretic properties that increase the amount of urine in your body to improve appetite, digestion, and kidney function.\r\n\r\nEvery part of this so-called weed is edible and can add <a href=\"http://www.naturallivingideas.com/things-to-do-with-dandelions/\">flavor and nutritional value</a> to your next salad, sandwich, and/or tea with its bounty of vitamins (A, B, C, and D) and minerals (iron, potassium, and zinc). Somewhere down the line, however, we stopped valuing these plants for their human health contributions and began typecasting them as an eyesore for our ideal green and lush lawns.\r\n\r\nKnowing its ability to improve human health, aerate your soil, and attract pest eating ladybugs, I would encourage you to embrace the dandelion. Nevertheless, I am not oblivious to the pressures forcing your hand to manage them.\r\n\r\nWhen contemplating how to get rid of dandelions, ask whether you want to apply the same control each year for the recurring dandelion symptom or do you want to tackle the root cause of the symptom and avoid repetition year after year? I can offer natural vinegar products and pre-emergent herbicides (i.e. <a href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/corn-gluten-meal-the-dos-and-donts/\">corn gluten</a>) that will kill these broadleaf weeds, but, just like with synthetic herbicides, these products do not address compacted, low pH, and nutrient imbalanced soil conditions that favor dandelion growth.\r\n\r\nLucky for you, many practices for growing strong and resilient turf limit these favorable soil conditions <a href=\"http://msue.anr.msu.edu/news/mow_high_for_weed_and_grub_control\">starting with mowing high</a>. Maintaining tall grass takes away the sunlight and soil entryways that dandelion seeds need to germinate, reduces the likeliness of scalping/damage of grass cells, and increases root mass and strength. In addition to mowing high, great lawn managers will exercise every option for their turf to crowd out and prevent the germination of dandelions including overseeding gaps with grasses, leaving grass clippings to smother dandelion seeds and fertilizer, and watering deeply and infrequently to encourage deeper root growth.\r\n\r\nHealthy, strong, and dense turf will battle and prevent many dandelion seeds from germinating in your lawn, but when seeds breach this first line of defense you’ll need the reinforcements of the billions of bacteria, protozoa, nematodes, and arthropods inhabiting your soil. Keeping these reinforcements happy requires a keen sense for their preferred soil nutrients, maintenance, and structure. Organizations from our list of soil test providers will measure the essential soil factors for life and provide recommendations for how to best treat your soil for grass growth using many of the aeration and soil amendment techniques that I <a href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/worryaboutthebottomdwellers/\">discussed in last month’s post</a>.\r\n\r\nBy applying your soil test provider’s suggestions and maintaining the tall, dense turf I described earlier, you should see reductions in the dreaded yellow flower. If you do not see reductions this year don’t be discouraged. It takes time and care to build-up healthy, resilient soil and turf, especially if the lawn highly depended on synthetic fertilizers and pesticides for growth previously.  For some lawn managers, this process may take between three and five years to holistically address dandelions, but once they see reductions and don’t have to spend all the time and money on year after year chemical control, it makes all that previous effort worth it.\r\n\r\nIf you have a dandelion presence now in your lawn, first try to establish a tolerance for it. A couple dandelions here and there will not bother anyone and can easily be managed manually.  For significant dandelion problems, we encourage you to apply an <a href=\"http://www.ipm.ucdavis.edu/PMG/PESTNOTES/pn7469.html\">Integrated Pest Management approach</a> of limiting your chemical use for the problem and choosing a product with the least toxicity to human health and the environment.  Find tips on this approach <a href=\"https://d3n8a8pro7vhmx.cloudfront.net/ncap/pages/44/attachments/original/1429733273/dandelions.pdf?1429733273\">here</a> and <a href=\"https://www.beyondpesticides.org/assets/media/documents/alternatives/factsheets/Least%20toxic%20control%20of%20weeds.pdf\">here</a>. Finally some after the fact natural treatments include <a href=\"http://www.pesticide.org/vinegar_herbicides\">vinegar</a>, <a href=\"http://diagnostics.montana.edu/plant/topics/herbicidalsoaps.html\">herbicidal soaps</a>, and <a href=\"https://extension.umd.edu/sites/default/files/_docs/programs/ipmnet/Iron%20Herbicide%20Info-UMD-IPMnet.pdf\">iron-based herbicides</a>.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;','June 2016','','inherit','closed','open','','3190-revision-v1','','','2016-05-31 19:50:34','2016-05-31 19:50:34','',3190,'http://midwestpesticideaction.org/3190-revision-v1/',0,'revision','',0),(3198,2,'2016-05-31 19:51:20','2016-05-31 19:51:20','<img class=\"alignright wp-image-3193\" src=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/dandelion-1306911_1920.jpg\" alt=\"dandelion-1306911_1920\" width=\"331\" height=\"220\" />For the countless times I’ve discussed “natural” strategies to eliminate dandelions, I can’t recall a single question on how they first became a staple “weed” in our American lawns! Yes, we all know these yellow sunflowers use “parachutes” to spread their seeds in every which crack, crevice, and opening of your lawn, but did you know that this abundant plant species originates from Europe?\r\n\r\nSince the Puritans introduced them to the New World, dandelions have played a role in <a href=\"http://www.georgiawildlife.com/node/3007\">American history</a>. During the civil war, Confederate soldiers replaced coffee with dried dandelion roots. Herbalists used the roots to treat <a href=\"http://umm.edu/health/medical/altmed/herb/dandelion\">liver and gallbladder disease</a>, since their leaves possess diuretic properties that increase the amount of urine in your body to improve appetite, digestion, and kidney function.\r\n\r\nEvery part of this so-called weed is edible and can add <a href=\"http://www.naturallivingideas.com/things-to-do-with-dandelions/\">flavor and nutritional value</a> to your next salad, sandwich, and/or tea with its bounty of vitamins (A, B, C, and D) and minerals (iron, potassium, and zinc). Somewhere down the line, however, we stopped valuing these plants for their human health contributions and began typecasting them as an eyesore for our ideal green and lush lawns.\r\n\r\nKnowing its ability to improve human health, aerate your soil, and attract pest eating ladybugs, I would encourage you to embrace the dandelion. Nevertheless, I am not oblivious to the pressures forcing your hand to manage them.\r\n\r\nWhen contemplating how to get rid of dandelions, ask whether you want to apply the same control each year for the recurring dandelion symptom or do you want to tackle the root cause of the symptom and avoid repetition year after year? I can offer natural vinegar products and pre-emergent herbicides (i.e. <a href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/corn-gluten-meal-the-dos-and-donts/\">corn gluten</a>) that will kill these broadleaf weeds, but, just like with synthetic herbicides, these products do not address compacted, low pH, and nutrient imbalanced soil conditions that favor dandelion growth.\r\n\r\nLucky for you, many practices for growing strong and resilient turf limit these favorable soil conditions <a href=\"http://msue.anr.msu.edu/news/mow_high_for_weed_and_grub_control\">starting with mowing high</a>. Maintaining tall grass takes away the sunlight and soil entryways that dandelion seeds need to germinate, reduces the likeliness of scalping/damage of grass cells, and increases root mass and strength. In addition to mowing high, great lawn managers will exercise every option for their turf to crowd out and prevent the germination of dandelions including overseeding gaps with grasses, leaving grass clippings to smother dandelion seeds and fertilizer, and watering deeply and infrequently to encourage deeper root growth.\r\n\r\nHealthy, strong, and dense turf will battle and prevent many dandelion seeds from germinating in your lawn, but when seeds breach this first line of defense you’ll need the reinforcements of the billions of bacteria, protozoa, nematodes, and arthropods inhabiting your soil. Keeping these reinforcements happy requires a keen sense for their preferred soil nutrients, maintenance, and structure. Organizations from our list of soil test providers will measure the essential soil factors for life and provide recommendations for how to best treat your soil for grass growth using many of the aeration and soil amendment techniques that I <a href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/worryaboutthebottomdwellers/\">discussed in last month’s post</a>.\r\n\r\nBy applying your soil test provider’s suggestions and maintaining the tall, dense turf I described earlier, you should see reductions in the dreaded yellow flower. If you do not see reductions this year don’t be discouraged. It takes time and care to build-up healthy, resilient soil and turf, especially if the lawn highly depended on synthetic fertilizers and pesticides for growth previously.  For some lawn managers, this process may take between three and five years to holistically address dandelions, but once they see reductions and don’t have to spend all the time and money on year after year chemical control, it makes all that previous effort worth it.\r\n\r\nIf you have a dandelion presence now in your lawn, first try to establish a tolerance for it. A couple dandelions here and there will not bother anyone and can easily be managed manually.  For significant dandelion problems, we encourage you to apply an <a href=\"http://www.ipm.ucdavis.edu/PMG/PESTNOTES/pn7469.html\">Integrated Pest Management approach</a> of limiting your chemical use for the problem and choosing a product with the least toxicity to human health and the environment.  Find tips on this approach <a href=\"https://d3n8a8pro7vhmx.cloudfront.net/ncap/pages/44/attachments/original/1429733273/dandelions.pdf?1429733273\">here</a> and <a href=\"https://www.beyondpesticides.org/assets/media/documents/alternatives/factsheets/Least%20toxic%20control%20of%20weeds.pdf\">here</a>. Finally some after the fact natural treatments include <a href=\"http://www.pesticide.org/vinegar_herbicides\">vinegar</a>, <a href=\"http://diagnostics.montana.edu/plant/topics/herbicidalsoaps.html\">herbicidal soaps</a>, and <a href=\"https://extension.umd.edu/sites/default/files/_docs/programs/ipmnet/Iron%20Herbicide%20Info-UMD-IPMnet.pdf\">iron-based herbicides</a>.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;','MPAC on Dandelions - June 2016','','inherit','closed','open','','3190-revision-v1','','','2016-05-31 19:51:20','2016-05-31 19:51:20','',3190,'http://midwestpesticideaction.org/3190-revision-v1/',0,'revision','',0),(3199,2,'2016-05-31 20:12:25','2016-05-31 20:12:25','<img class=\"alignright wp-image-3193\" src=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/dandelion-1306911_1920.jpg\" alt=\"dandelion-1306911_1920\" width=\"331\" height=\"220\" />For the countless times I’ve discussed “natural” strategies to eliminate dandelions, I can’t recall a single question on how they first became a staple “weed” in our American lawns! Yes, we all know these yellow sunflowers use “parachutes” to spread their seeds in every which crack, crevice, and opening of your lawn, but did you know that this abundant plant species originates from Europe?\r\n\r\nSince the Puritans introduced them to the New World, dandelions have played a role in <a href=\"http://www.georgiawildlife.com/node/3007\" target=\"_blank\">American history</a>. During the civil war, Confederate soldiers replaced coffee with dried dandelion roots. Herbalists used the roots to treat <a href=\"http://umm.edu/health/medical/altmed/herb/dandelion\" target=\"_blank\">liver and gallbladder disease</a>, since their leaves possess diuretic properties that increase the amount of urine in your body to improve appetite, digestion, and kidney function.\r\n\r\nEvery part of this so-called weed is edible and can add <a href=\"http://www.naturallivingideas.com/things-to-do-with-dandelions/\" target=\"_blank\">flavor and nutritional value</a> to your next salad, sandwich, and/or tea with its bounty of vitamins (A, B, C, and D) and minerals (iron, potassium, and zinc). Somewhere down the line, however, we stopped valuing these plants for their human health contributions and began typecasting them as an eyesore for our ideal green and lush lawns.\r\n\r\nKnowing its ability to improve human health, aerate your soil, and attract pest eating ladybugs, I would encourage you to embrace the dandelion. Nevertheless, I am not oblivious to the pressures forcing your hand to manage them.\r\n\r\nWhen contemplating how to get rid of dandelions, ask whether you want to apply the same control each year for the recurring dandelion symptom or do you want to tackle the root cause of the symptom and avoid repetition year after year? I can offer natural vinegar products and pre-emergent herbicides (i.e. <a href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/corn-gluten-meal-the-dos-and-donts/\" target=\"_blank\">corn gluten</a>) that will kill these broadleaf weeds, but, just like with synthetic herbicides, these products do not address compacted, low pH, and nutrient imbalanced soil conditions that favor dandelion growth.\r\n\r\nLucky for you, many practices for growing strong and resilient turf limit these favorable soil conditions <a href=\"http://msue.anr.msu.edu/news/mow_high_for_weed_and_grub_control\" target=\"_blank\">starting with mowing high</a>. Maintaining tall grass takes away the sunlight and soil entryways that dandelion seeds need to germinate, reduces the likeliness of scalping/damage of grass cells, and increases root mass and strength. In addition to mowing high, great lawn managers will exercise every option for their turf to crowd out and prevent the germination of dandelions including overseeding gaps with grasses, leaving grass clippings to smother dandelion seeds and fertilizer, and watering deeply and infrequently to encourage deeper root growth.\r\n\r\nHealthy, strong, and dense turf will battle and prevent many dandelion seeds from germinating in your lawn, but when seeds breach this first line of defense you’ll need the reinforcements of the billions of bacteria, protozoa, nematodes, and arthropods inhabiting your soil. Keeping these reinforcements happy requires a keen sense for their preferred soil nutrients, maintenance, and structure. Organizations from our list of soil test providers will measure the essential soil factors for life and provide recommendations for how to best treat your soil for grass growth using many of the aeration and soil amendment techniques that I <a href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/worryaboutthebottomdwellers/\" target=\"_blank\">discussed in last month’s post</a>.\r\n\r\nBy applying your soil test provider’s suggestions and maintaining the tall, dense turf I described earlier, you should see reductions in the dreaded yellow flower. If you do not see reductions this year don’t be discouraged. It takes time and care to build-up healthy, resilient soil and turf, especially if the lawn highly depended on synthetic fertilizers and pesticides for growth previously.  For some lawn managers, this process may take between three and five years to holistically address dandelions, but once they see reductions and don’t have to spend all the time and money on year after year chemical control, it makes all that previous effort worth it.\r\n\r\nIf you have a dandelion presence now in your lawn, first try to establish a tolerance for it. A couple dandelions here and there will not bother anyone and can easily be managed manually.  For significant dandelion problems, we encourage you to apply an <a href=\"http://www.ipm.ucdavis.edu/PMG/PESTNOTES/pn7469.html\" target=\"_blank\">Integrated Pest Management approach</a> of limiting your chemical use for the problem and choosing a product with the least toxicity to human health and the environment.  Find tips on this approach <a href=\"https://d3n8a8pro7vhmx.cloudfront.net/ncap/pages/44/attachments/original/1429733273/dandelions.pdf?1429733273\" target=\"_blank\">here</a> and <a href=\"https://www.beyondpesticides.org/assets/media/documents/alternatives/factsheets/Least%20toxic%20control%20of%20weeds.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">here</a>. Finally some after the fact natural treatments include <a href=\"http://www.pesticide.org/vinegar_herbicides\" target=\"_blank\">vinegar</a>, <a href=\"http://diagnostics.montana.edu/plant/topics/herbicidalsoaps.html\" target=\"_blank\">herbicidal soaps</a>, and <a href=\"https://extension.umd.edu/sites/default/files/_docs/programs/ipmnet/Iron%20Herbicide%20Info-UMD-IPMnet.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">iron-based herbicides</a>.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;','MPAC on Dandelions - June 2016','','inherit','closed','open','','3190-revision-v1','','','2016-05-31 20:12:25','2016-05-31 20:12:25','',3190,'http://midwestpesticideaction.org/3190-revision-v1/',0,'revision','',0),(3200,2,'2016-05-31 20:16:41','2016-05-31 20:16:41','<img class=\"alignright wp-image-3193\" src=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/dandelion-1306911_1920.jpg\" alt=\"dandelion-1306911_1920\" width=\"331\" height=\"220\" />For the countless times I’ve discussed “natural” strategies to eliminate dandelions, I can’t recall a single question on how they first became a staple “weed” in our American lawns! Yes, we all know these yellow sunflowers use “parachutes” to spread their seeds in every which crack, crevice, and opening of your lawn, but did you know that this abundant plant species originates from Europe?\r\n\r\nSince the Puritans introduced them to the New World, dandelions have played a role in <a href=\"http://www.georgiawildlife.com/node/3007\">American history</a>. During the civil war, Confederate soldiers replaced coffee with dried dandelion roots. Herbalists used the roots to treat <a href=\"http://umm.edu/health/medical/altmed/herb/dandelion\">liver and gallbladder disease</a>, since their leaves possess diuretic properties that increase the amount of urine in your body to improve appetite, digestion, and kidney function.\r\n\r\nEvery part of this so-called weed is edible and can add <a href=\"http://www.naturallivingideas.com/things-to-do-with-dandelions/\">flavor and nutritional value</a> to your next salad, sandwich, and/or tea with its bounty of vitamins (A, B, C, and D) and minerals (iron, potassium, and zinc). Somewhere down the line, however, we stopped valuing these plants for their human health contributions and began typecasting them as an eyesore for our ideal green and lush lawns.\r\n\r\nKnowing its ability to improve human health, aerate your soil, and attract pest eating ladybugs, I would encourage you to embrace the dandelion. Nevertheless, I am not oblivious to the pressures forcing your hand to manage them.\r\n\r\nWhen contemplating how to get rid of dandelions, ask whether you want to apply the same control each year for the recurring dandelion symptom or do you want to tackle the root cause of the symptom and avoid repetition year after year? I can offer natural vinegar products and pre-emergent herbicides (i.e. <a href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/corn-gluten-meal-the-dos-and-donts/\">corn gluten</a>) that will kill these broadleaf weeds, but, just like with synthetic herbicides, these products do not address compacted, low pH, and nutrient imbalanced soil conditions that favor dandelion growth.\r\n\r\nLucky for you, many practices for growing strong and resilient turf limit these favorable soil conditions <a href=\"http://msue.anr.msu.edu/news/mow_high_for_weed_and_grub_control\">starting with mowing high</a>. Maintaining tall grass takes away the sunlight and soil entryways that dandelion seeds need to germinate, reduces the likeliness of scalping/damage of grass cells, and increases root mass and strength. In addition to mowing high, great lawn managers will exercise every option for their turf to crowd out and prevent the germination of dandelions including overseeding gaps with grasses, leaving grass clippings to smother dandelion seeds and fertilizer, and watering deeply and infrequently to encourage deeper root growth.\r\n\r\nHealthy, strong, and dense turf will battle and prevent many dandelion seeds from germinating in your lawn, but when seeds breach this first line of defense you’ll need the reinforcements of the billions of bacteria, protozoa, nematodes, and arthropods inhabiting your soil. Keeping these reinforcements happy requires a keen sense for their preferred soil nutrients, maintenance, and structure. Organizations from our list of soil test providers will measure the essential soil factors for life and provide recommendations for how to best treat your soil for grass growth using many of the aeration and soil amendment techniques that I <a href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/worryaboutthebottomdwellers/\">discussed in last month’s post</a>.\r\n\r\nBy applying your soil test provider’s suggestions and maintaining the tall, dense turf I described earlier, you should see reductions in the dreaded yellow flower. If you do not see reductions this year don’t be discouraged. It takes time and care to build-up healthy, resilient soil and turf, especially if the lawn highly depended on synthetic fertilizers and pesticides for growth previously.  For some lawn managers, this process may take between three and five years to holistically address dandelions, but once they see reductions and don’t have to spend all the time and money on year after year chemical control, it makes all that previous effort worth it.\r\n\r\nIf you have a dandelion presence now in your lawn, first try to establish a tolerance for it. A couple dandelions here and there will not bother anyone and can easily be managed manually.  For significant dandelion problems, we encourage you to apply an <a href=\"http://www.ipm.ucdavis.edu/PMG/PESTNOTES/pn7469.html\">Integrated Pest Management approach</a> of limiting your chemical use for the problem and choosing a product with the least toxicity to human health and the environment.  Find tips on this approach <a href=\"https://d3n8a8pro7vhmx.cloudfront.net/ncap/pages/44/attachments/original/1429733273/dandelions.pdf?1429733273\">here</a> and <a href=\"https://www.beyondpesticides.org/assets/media/documents/alternatives/factsheets/Least%20toxic%20control%20of%20weeds.pdf\">here</a>. Finally some after the fact natural treatments include <a href=\"http://www.pesticide.org/vinegar_herbicides\">vinegar</a>, <a href=\"http://diagnostics.montana.edu/plant/topics/herbicidalsoaps.html\">herbicidal soaps</a>, and <a href=\"https://extension.umd.edu/sites/default/files/_docs/programs/ipmnet/Iron%20Herbicide%20Info-UMD-IPMnet.pdf\">iron-based herbicides</a>.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;','MPAC on Dandelions - June 2016','','inherit','closed','open','','3190-revision-v1','','','2016-05-31 20:16:41','2016-05-31 20:16:41','',3190,'http://midwestpesticideaction.org/3190-revision-v1/',0,'revision','',0),(3201,2,'2016-05-31 20:17:17','2016-05-31 20:17:17','<img class=\"alignright wp-image-3193\" src=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/dandelion-1306911_1920.jpg\" alt=\"dandelion-1306911_1920\" width=\"331\" height=\"220\" />For the countless times I’ve discussed “natural” strategies to eliminate dandelions, I can’t recall a single question on how they first became a staple “weed” in our American lawns! Yes, we know these yellow sunflowers use “parachutes” to spread their seeds in every which crack, crevice, and opening of your lawn, but did you know that this abundant plant species originates from Europe?\r\n\r\nSince the Puritans introduced them to the New World, dandelions have played a role in <a href=\"http://www.georgiawildlife.com/node/3007\">American history</a>. During the civil war, Confederate soldiers replaced coffee with dried dandelion roots. Herbalists used the roots to treat <a href=\"http://umm.edu/health/medical/altmed/herb/dandelion\">liver and gallbladder disease</a>, since their leaves possess diuretic properties that increase the amount of urine in your body to improve appetite, digestion, and kidney function.\r\n\r\nEvery part of this so-called weed is edible and can add <a href=\"http://www.naturallivingideas.com/things-to-do-with-dandelions/\">flavor and nutritional value</a> to your next salad, sandwich, and/or tea with its bounty of vitamins (A, B, C, and D) and minerals (iron, potassium, and zinc). Somewhere down the line, however, we stopped valuing these plants for their human health contributions and began typecasting them as an eyesore for our ideal green and lush lawns.\r\n\r\nKnowing its ability to improve human health, aerate your soil, and attract pest eating ladybugs, I would encourage you to embrace the dandelion. Nevertheless, I am not oblivious to the pressures forcing your hand to manage them.\r\n\r\nWhen contemplating how to get rid of dandelions, ask whether you want to apply the same control each year for the recurring dandelion symptom or do you want to tackle the root cause of the symptom and avoid repetition year after year? I can offer natural vinegar products and pre-emergent herbicides (i.e. <a href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/corn-gluten-meal-the-dos-and-donts/\">corn gluten</a>) that will kill these broadleaf weeds, but, just like with synthetic herbicides, these products do not address compacted, low pH, and nutrient imbalanced soil conditions that favor dandelion growth.\r\n\r\nLucky for you, many practices for growing strong and resilient turf limit these favorable soil conditions <a href=\"http://msue.anr.msu.edu/news/mow_high_for_weed_and_grub_control\">starting with mowing high</a>. Maintaining tall grass takes away the sunlight and soil entryways that dandelion seeds need to germinate, reduces the likeliness of scalping/damage of grass cells, and increases root mass and strength. In addition to mowing high, great lawn managers will exercise every option for their turf to crowd out and prevent the germination of dandelions including overseeding gaps with grasses, leaving grass clippings to smother dandelion seeds and fertilizer, and watering deeply and infrequently to encourage root growth.\r\n\r\nHealthy, strong, and dense turf will battle and prevent many dandelion seeds from germinating in your lawn, but when seeds breach this first line of defense you’ll need the reinforcements of the billions of bacteria, protozoa, nematodes, and arthropods inhabiting your soil. Keeping these reinforcements happy requires a keen sense for their preferred soil nutrients, maintenance, and structure. Organizations from our list of soil test providers will measure the essential soil factors for life and provide recommendations for how to best treat your soil for grass growth using many of the aeration and soil amendment techniques that I <a href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/worryaboutthebottomdwellers/\">discussed in last month’s post</a>.\r\n\r\nBy applying your soil test provider’s suggestions and maintaining the tall, dense turf I described earlier, you should see reductions in the dreaded yellow flower. If you do not see reductions this year don’t be discouraged. It takes time and care to build-up healthy, resilient soil and turf, especially if the lawn highly depended on synthetic fertilizers and pesticides for growth previously.  For some lawn managers, this process may take between three and five years to holistically address dandelions, but once they see reductions and don’t have to spend all the time and money on year after year chemical control, it makes all that previous effort worth it.\r\n\r\nIf you have a dandelion presence now in your lawn, first try to establish a tolerance for it. A couple dandelions here and there will not bother anyone and can easily be managed manually.  For significant dandelion problems, we encourage you to apply an <a href=\"http://www.ipm.ucdavis.edu/PMG/PESTNOTES/pn7469.html\">Integrated Pest Management approach</a> of limiting your chemical use for the problem and choosing a product with the least toxicity to human health and the environment.  Find tips on this approach <a href=\"https://d3n8a8pro7vhmx.cloudfront.net/ncap/pages/44/attachments/original/1429733273/dandelions.pdf?1429733273\">here</a> and <a href=\"https://www.beyondpesticides.org/assets/media/documents/alternatives/factsheets/Least%20toxic%20control%20of%20weeds.pdf\">here</a>. Finally some after the fact natural treatments include <a href=\"http://www.pesticide.org/vinegar_herbicides\">vinegar</a>, <a href=\"http://diagnostics.montana.edu/plant/topics/herbicidalsoaps.html\">herbicidal soaps</a>, and <a href=\"https://extension.umd.edu/sites/default/files/_docs/programs/ipmnet/Iron%20Herbicide%20Info-UMD-IPMnet.pdf\">iron-based herbicides</a>.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;','MPAC on Dandelions - June 2016','','inherit','closed','open','','3190-revision-v1','','','2016-05-31 20:17:17','2016-05-31 20:17:17','',3190,'http://midwestpesticideaction.org/3190-revision-v1/',0,'revision','',0),(3202,2,'2016-05-31 20:20:03','2016-05-31 20:20:03','<img class=\"alignright wp-image-3193\" src=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/dandelion-1306911_1920.jpg\" alt=\"dandelion-1306911_1920\" width=\"331\" height=\"220\" />\r\n<h2>Getting rid of dandelions the safe way (even though they\'re beneficial!)</h2>\r\nFor the countless times I’ve discussed “natural” strategies to eliminate dandelions, I can’t recall a single question on how they first became a staple “weed” in our American lawns! Yes, we all know these yellow sunflowers use “parachutes” to spread their seeds in every which crack, crevice, and opening of your lawn, but did you know that this abundant plant species originates from Europe?\r\n\r\nSince the Puritans introduced them to the New World, dandelions have played a role in <a href=\"http://www.georgiawildlife.com/node/3007\" target=\"_blank\">American history</a>. During the civil war, Confederate soldiers replaced coffee with dried dandelion roots. Herbalists used the roots to treat <a href=\"http://umm.edu/health/medical/altmed/herb/dandelion\" target=\"_blank\">liver and gallbladder disease</a>, since their leaves possess diuretic properties that increase the amount of urine in your body to improve appetite, digestion, and kidney function.\r\n\r\nEvery part of this so-called weed is edible and can add <a href=\"http://www.naturallivingideas.com/things-to-do-with-dandelions/\" target=\"_blank\">flavor and nutritional value</a> to your next salad, sandwich, and/or tea with its bounty of vitamins (A, B, C, and D) and minerals (iron, potassium, and zinc). Somewhere down the line, however, we stopped valuing these plants for their human health contributions and began typecasting them as an eyesore for our ideal green and lush lawns.\r\n\r\nKnowing its ability to improve human health, aerate your soil, and attract pest eating ladybugs, I would encourage you to embrace the dandelion. Nevertheless, I am not oblivious to the pressures forcing your hand to manage them.\r\n\r\nWhen contemplating how to get rid of dandelions, ask whether you want to apply the same control each year for the recurring dandelion symptom or do you want to tackle the root cause of the symptom and avoid repetition year after year? I can offer natural vinegar products and pre-emergent herbicides (i.e. <a href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/corn-gluten-meal-the-dos-and-donts/\" target=\"_blank\">corn gluten</a>) that will kill these broadleaf weeds, but, just like with synthetic herbicides, these products do not address compacted, low pH, and nutrient imbalanced soil conditions that favor dandelion growth.\r\n\r\nLucky for you, many practices for growing strong and resilient turf limit these favorable soil conditions <a href=\"http://msue.anr.msu.edu/news/mow_high_for_weed_and_grub_control\" target=\"_blank\">starting with mowing high</a>. Maintaining tall grass takes away the sunlight and soil entryways that dandelion seeds need to germinate, reduces the likeliness of scalping/damage of grass cells, and increases root mass and strength. In addition to mowing high, great lawn managers will exercise every option for their turf to crowd out and prevent the germination of dandelions including overseeding gaps with grasses, leaving grass clippings to smother dandelion seeds and fertilizer, and watering deeply and infrequently to encourage deeper root growth.\r\n\r\nHealthy, strong, and dense turf will battle and prevent many dandelion seeds from germinating in your lawn, but when seeds breach this first line of defense you’ll need the reinforcements of the billions of bacteria, protozoa, nematodes, and arthropods inhabiting your soil. Keeping these reinforcements happy requires a keen sense for their preferred soil nutrients, maintenance, and structure. Organizations from our list of soil test providers will measure the essential soil factors for life and provide recommendations for how to best treat your soil for grass growth using many of the aeration and soil amendment techniques that I <a href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/worryaboutthebottomdwellers/\" target=\"_blank\">discussed in last month’s post</a>.\r\n\r\nBy applying your soil test provider’s suggestions and maintaining the tall, dense turf I described earlier, you should see reductions in the dreaded yellow flower. If you do not see reductions this year don’t be discouraged. It takes time and care to build-up healthy, resilient soil and turf, especially if the lawn highly depended on synthetic fertilizers and pesticides for growth previously.  For some lawn managers, this process may take between three and five years to holistically address dandelions, but once they see reductions and don’t have to spend all the time and money on year after year chemical control, it makes all that previous effort worth it.\r\n\r\nIf you have a dandelion presence now in your lawn, first try to establish a tolerance for it. A couple dandelions here and there will not bother anyone and can easily be managed manually.  For significant dandelion problems, we encourage you to apply an <a href=\"http://www.ipm.ucdavis.edu/PMG/PESTNOTES/pn7469.html\" target=\"_blank\">Integrated Pest Management approach</a> of limiting your chemical use for the problem and choosing a product with the least toxicity to human health and the environment.  Find tips on this approach <a href=\"https://d3n8a8pro7vhmx.cloudfront.net/ncap/pages/44/attachments/original/1429733273/dandelions.pdf?1429733273\" target=\"_blank\">here</a> and <a href=\"https://www.beyondpesticides.org/assets/media/documents/alternatives/factsheets/Least%20toxic%20control%20of%20weeds.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">here</a>. Finally some after the fact natural treatments include <a href=\"http://www.pesticide.org/vinegar_herbicides\" target=\"_blank\">vinegar</a>, <a href=\"http://diagnostics.montana.edu/plant/topics/herbicidalsoaps.html\" target=\"_blank\">herbicidal soaps</a>, and <a href=\"https://extension.umd.edu/sites/default/files/_docs/programs/ipmnet/Iron%20Herbicide%20Info-UMD-IPMnet.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">iron-based herbicides</a>.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;','MPAC on Dandelions - June 2016','','inherit','closed','open','','3190-revision-v1','','','2016-05-31 20:20:03','2016-05-31 20:20:03','',3190,'http://midwestpesticideaction.org/3190-revision-v1/',0,'revision','',0),(3203,2,'2016-05-31 20:20:29','2016-05-31 20:20:29','<img class=\"alignright wp-image-3193\" src=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/dandelion-1306911_1920.jpg\" alt=\"dandelion-1306911_1920\" width=\"331\" height=\"220\" />\r\n<h2>Getting rid of dandelions the safe way (even though they\'re beneficial!)</h2>\r\nFor the countless times I’ve discussed “natural” strategies to eliminate dandelions, I can’t recall a single question on how they first became a staple “weed” in our American lawns! Yes, we all know these yellow sunflowers use “parachutes” to spread their seeds in every which crack, crevice, and opening of your lawn, but did you know that this abundant plant species originates from Europe?\r\n\r\nSince the Puritans introduced them to the New World, dandelions have played a role in <a href=\"http://www.georgiawildlife.com/node/3007\" target=\"_blank\">American history</a>. During the civil war, Confederate soldiers replaced coffee with dried dandelion roots. Herbalists used the roots to treat <a href=\"http://umm.edu/health/medical/altmed/herb/dandelion\" target=\"_blank\">liver and gallbladder disease</a>, since their leaves possess diuretic properties that increase the amount of urine in your body to improve appetite, digestion, and kidney function.\r\n\r\nEvery part of this so-called weed is edible and can add <a href=\"http://www.naturallivingideas.com/things-to-do-with-dandelions/\" target=\"_blank\">flavor and nutritional value</a> to your next salad, sandwich, and/or tea with its bounty of vitamins (A, B, C, and D) and minerals (iron, potassium, and zinc). Somewhere down the line, however, we stopped valuing these plants for their human health contributions and began typecasting them as an eyesore for our ideal green and lush lawns.\r\n\r\nKnowing its ability to improve human health, aerate your soil, and attract pest eating ladybugs, I would encourage you to embrace the dandelion. Nevertheless, I am not oblivious to the pressures forcing your hand to manage them.\r\n\r\nWhen contemplating how to get rid of dandelions, ask whether you want to apply the same control each year for the recurring dandelion symptom or do you want to tackle the root cause of the symptom and avoid repetition year after year? I can offer natural vinegar products and pre-emergent herbicides (i.e. <a href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/corn-gluten-meal-the-dos-and-donts/\" target=\"_blank\">corn gluten</a>) that will kill these broadleaf weeds, but, just like with synthetic herbicides, these products do not address compacted, low pH, and nutrient imbalanced soil conditions that favor dandelion growth.\r\n\r\nLucky for you, many practices for growing strong and resilient turf limit these favorable soil conditions <a href=\"http://msue.anr.msu.edu/news/mow_high_for_weed_and_grub_control\" target=\"_blank\">starting with mowing high</a>. Maintaining tall grass takes away the sunlight and soil entryways that dandelion seeds need to germinate, reduces the likeliness of scalping/damage of grass cells, and increases root mass and strength. In addition to mowing high, great lawn managers will exercise every option for their turf to crowd out and prevent the germination of dandelions including overseeding gaps with grasses, leaving grass clippings to smother dandelion seeds and fertilizer, and watering deeply and infrequently to encourage deeper root growth.\r\n\r\nHealthy, strong, and dense turf will battle and prevent many dandelion seeds from germinating in your lawn, but when seeds breach this first line of defense you’ll need the reinforcements of the billions of bacteria, protozoa, nematodes, and arthropods inhabiting your soil. Keeping these reinforcements happy requires a keen sense for their preferred soil nutrients, maintenance, and structure. Organizations from our list of soil test providers will measure the essential soil factors for life and provide recommendations for how to best treat your soil for grass growth using many of the aeration and soil amendment techniques that I <a href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/worryaboutthebottomdwellers/\" target=\"_blank\">discussed in last month’s post</a>.\r\n\r\nBy applying your soil test provider’s suggestions and maintaining the tall, dense turf I described earlier, you should see reductions in the dreaded yellow flower. If you do not see reductions this year don’t be discouraged. It takes time and care to build-up healthy, resilient soil and turf, especially if the lawn highly depended on synthetic fertilizers and pesticides for growth previously.  For some lawn managers, this process may take between three and five years to holistically address dandelions, but once they see reductions and don’t have to spend all the time and money on year after year chemical control, it makes all that previous effort worth it.\r\n\r\nIf you have a dandelion presence now in your lawn, first try to establish a tolerance for it. A couple dandelions here and there will not bother anyone and can easily be managed manually.  For significant dandelion problems, we encourage you to apply an <a href=\"http://www.ipm.ucdavis.edu/PMG/PESTNOTES/pn7469.html\" target=\"_blank\">Integrated Pest Management approach</a> of limiting your chemical use for the problem and choosing a product with the least toxicity to human health and the environment.  Find tips on this approach <a href=\"https://d3n8a8pro7vhmx.cloudfront.net/ncap/pages/44/attachments/original/1429733273/dandelions.pdf?1429733273\" target=\"_blank\">here</a> and <a href=\"https://www.beyondpesticides.org/assets/media/documents/alternatives/factsheets/Least%20toxic%20control%20of%20weeds.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">here</a>. Finally some after the fact natural treatments include <a href=\"http://www.pesticide.org/vinegar_herbicides\" target=\"_blank\">vinegar</a>, <a href=\"http://diagnostics.montana.edu/plant/topics/herbicidalsoaps.html\" target=\"_blank\">herbicidal soaps</a>, and <a href=\"https://extension.umd.edu/sites/default/files/_docs/programs/ipmnet/Iron%20Herbicide%20Info-UMD-IPMnet.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">iron-based herbicides</a>.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;','','','inherit','closed','open','','3190-revision-v1','','','2016-05-31 20:20:29','2016-05-31 20:20:29','',3190,'http://midwestpesticideaction.org/3190-revision-v1/',0,'revision','',0),(3204,2,'2016-05-31 20:21:15','2016-05-31 20:21:15','<img class=\"alignright wp-image-3193\" src=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/dandelion-1306911_1920.jpg\" alt=\"dandelion-1306911_1920\" width=\"331\" height=\"220\" />\r\n<h3>Getting rid of dandelions the safe way (even though they\'re beneficial!)</h3>\r\nFor the countless times I’ve discussed “natural” strategies to eliminate dandelions, I can’t recall a single question on how they first became a staple “weed” in our American lawns! Yes, we all know these yellow sunflowers use “parachutes” to spread their seeds in every which crack, crevice, and opening of your lawn, but did you know that this abundant plant species originates from Europe?\r\n\r\nSince the Puritans introduced them to the New World, dandelions have played a role in <a href=\"http://www.georgiawildlife.com/node/3007\" target=\"_blank\">American history</a>. During the civil war, Confederate soldiers replaced coffee with dried dandelion roots. Herbalists used the roots to treat <a href=\"http://umm.edu/health/medical/altmed/herb/dandelion\" target=\"_blank\">liver and gallbladder disease</a>, since their leaves possess diuretic properties that increase the amount of urine in your body to improve appetite, digestion, and kidney function.\r\n\r\nEvery part of this so-called weed is edible and can add <a href=\"http://www.naturallivingideas.com/things-to-do-with-dandelions/\" target=\"_blank\">flavor and nutritional value</a> to your next salad, sandwich, and/or tea with its bounty of vitamins (A, B, C, and D) and minerals (iron, potassium, and zinc). Somewhere down the line, however, we stopped valuing these plants for their human health contributions and began typecasting them as an eyesore for our ideal green and lush lawns.\r\n\r\nKnowing its ability to improve human health, aerate your soil, and attract pest eating ladybugs, I would encourage you to embrace the dandelion. Nevertheless, I am not oblivious to the pressures forcing your hand to manage them.\r\n\r\nWhen contemplating how to get rid of dandelions, ask whether you want to apply the same control each year for the recurring dandelion symptom or do you want to tackle the root cause of the symptom and avoid repetition year after year? I can offer natural vinegar products and pre-emergent herbicides (i.e. <a href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/corn-gluten-meal-the-dos-and-donts/\" target=\"_blank\">corn gluten</a>) that will kill these broadleaf weeds, but, just like with synthetic herbicides, these products do not address compacted, low pH, and nutrient imbalanced soil conditions that favor dandelion growth.\r\n\r\nLucky for you, many practices for growing strong and resilient turf limit these favorable soil conditions <a href=\"http://msue.anr.msu.edu/news/mow_high_for_weed_and_grub_control\" target=\"_blank\">starting with mowing high</a>. Maintaining tall grass takes away the sunlight and soil entryways that dandelion seeds need to germinate, reduces the likeliness of scalping/damage of grass cells, and increases root mass and strength. In addition to mowing high, great lawn managers will exercise every option for their turf to crowd out and prevent the germination of dandelions including overseeding gaps with grasses, leaving grass clippings to smother dandelion seeds and fertilizer, and watering deeply and infrequently to encourage deeper root growth.\r\n\r\nHealthy, strong, and dense turf will battle and prevent many dandelion seeds from germinating in your lawn, but when seeds breach this first line of defense you’ll need the reinforcements of the billions of bacteria, protozoa, nematodes, and arthropods inhabiting your soil. Keeping these reinforcements happy requires a keen sense for their preferred soil nutrients, maintenance, and structure. Organizations from our list of soil test providers will measure the essential soil factors for life and provide recommendations for how to best treat your soil for grass growth using many of the aeration and soil amendment techniques that I <a href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/worryaboutthebottomdwellers/\" target=\"_blank\">discussed in last month’s post</a>.\r\n\r\nBy applying your soil test provider’s suggestions and maintaining the tall, dense turf I described earlier, you should see reductions in the dreaded yellow flower. If you do not see reductions this year don’t be discouraged. It takes time and care to build-up healthy, resilient soil and turf, especially if the lawn highly depended on synthetic fertilizers and pesticides for growth previously.  For some lawn managers, this process may take between three and five years to holistically address dandelions, but once they see reductions and don’t have to spend all the time and money on year after year chemical control, it makes all that previous effort worth it.\r\n\r\nIf you have a dandelion presence now in your lawn, first try to establish a tolerance for it. A couple dandelions here and there will not bother anyone and can easily be managed manually.  For significant dandelion problems, we encourage you to apply an <a href=\"http://www.ipm.ucdavis.edu/PMG/PESTNOTES/pn7469.html\" target=\"_blank\">Integrated Pest Management approach</a> of limiting your chemical use for the problem and choosing a product with the least toxicity to human health and the environment.  Find tips on this approach <a href=\"https://d3n8a8pro7vhmx.cloudfront.net/ncap/pages/44/attachments/original/1429733273/dandelions.pdf?1429733273\" target=\"_blank\">here</a> and <a href=\"https://www.beyondpesticides.org/assets/media/documents/alternatives/factsheets/Least%20toxic%20control%20of%20weeds.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">here</a>. Finally some after the fact natural treatments include <a href=\"http://www.pesticide.org/vinegar_herbicides\" target=\"_blank\">vinegar</a>, <a href=\"http://diagnostics.montana.edu/plant/topics/herbicidalsoaps.html\" target=\"_blank\">herbicidal soaps</a>, and <a href=\"https://extension.umd.edu/sites/default/files/_docs/programs/ipmnet/Iron%20Herbicide%20Info-UMD-IPMnet.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">iron-based herbicides</a>.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;','Dealing with Dandelions','','inherit','closed','open','','3190-revision-v1','','','2016-05-31 20:21:15','2016-05-31 20:21:15','',3190,'http://midwestpesticideaction.org/3190-revision-v1/',0,'revision','',0),(3205,2,'2016-05-31 20:22:10','2016-05-31 20:22:10','<h3>Getting rid of dandelions the safe way (even though they\'re beneficial!)</h3>\r\nFor the countless times I’ve discussed “natural” strategies to eliminate dandelions, I can’t recall a <img class=\"alignright wp-image-3193\" src=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/dandelion-1306911_1920.jpg\" alt=\"dandelion-1306911_1920\" width=\"331\" height=\"220\" />single question on how they first became a staple “weed” in our American lawns! Yes, we all know these yellow sunflowers use “parachutes” to spread their seeds in every which crack, crevice, and opening of your lawn, but did you know that this abundant plant species originates from Europe?\r\n\r\nSince the Puritans introduced them to the New World, dandelions have played a role in <a href=\"http://www.georgiawildlife.com/node/3007\" target=\"_blank\">American history</a>. During the civil war, Confederate soldiers replaced coffee with dried dandelion roots. Herbalists used the roots to treat <a href=\"http://umm.edu/health/medical/altmed/herb/dandelion\" target=\"_blank\">liver and gallbladder disease</a>, since their leaves possess diuretic properties that increase the amount of urine in your body to improve appetite, digestion, and kidney function.\r\n\r\nEvery part of this so-called weed is edible and can add <a href=\"http://www.naturallivingideas.com/things-to-do-with-dandelions/\" target=\"_blank\">flavor and nutritional value</a> to your next salad, sandwich, and/or tea with its bounty of vitamins (A, B, C, and D) and minerals (iron, potassium, and zinc). Somewhere down the line, however, we stopped valuing these plants for their human health contributions and began typecasting them as an eyesore for our ideal green and lush lawns.\r\n\r\nKnowing its ability to improve human health, aerate your soil, and attract pest eating ladybugs, I would encourage you to embrace the dandelion. Nevertheless, I am not oblivious to the pressures forcing your hand to manage them.\r\n\r\nWhen contemplating how to get rid of dandelions, ask whether you want to apply the same control each year for the recurring dandelion symptom or do you want to tackle the root cause of the symptom and avoid repetition year after year? I can offer natural vinegar products and pre-emergent herbicides (i.e. <a href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/corn-gluten-meal-the-dos-and-donts/\" target=\"_blank\">corn gluten</a>) that will kill these broadleaf weeds, but, just like with synthetic herbicides, these products do not address compacted, low pH, and nutrient imbalanced soil conditions that favor dandelion growth.\r\n\r\nLucky for you, many practices for growing strong and resilient turf limit these favorable soil conditions <a href=\"http://msue.anr.msu.edu/news/mow_high_for_weed_and_grub_control\" target=\"_blank\">starting with mowing high</a>. Maintaining tall grass takes away the sunlight and soil entryways that dandelion seeds need to germinate, reduces the likeliness of scalping/damage of grass cells, and increases root mass and strength. In addition to mowing high, great lawn managers will exercise every option for their turf to crowd out and prevent the germination of dandelions including overseeding gaps with grasses, leaving grass clippings to smother dandelion seeds and fertilizer, and watering deeply and infrequently to encourage deeper root growth.\r\n\r\nHealthy, strong, and dense turf will battle and prevent many dandelion seeds from germinating in your lawn, but when seeds breach this first line of defense you’ll need the reinforcements of the billions of bacteria, protozoa, nematodes, and arthropods inhabiting your soil. Keeping these reinforcements happy requires a keen sense for their preferred soil nutrients, maintenance, and structure. Organizations from our list of soil test providers will measure the essential soil factors for life and provide recommendations for how to best treat your soil for grass growth using many of the aeration and soil amendment techniques that I <a href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/worryaboutthebottomdwellers/\" target=\"_blank\">discussed in last month’s post</a>.\r\n\r\nBy applying your soil test provider’s suggestions and maintaining the tall, dense turf I described earlier, you should see reductions in the dreaded yellow flower. If you do not see reductions this year don’t be discouraged. It takes time and care to build-up healthy, resilient soil and turf, especially if the lawn highly depended on synthetic fertilizers and pesticides for growth previously.  For some lawn managers, this process may take between three and five years to holistically address dandelions, but once they see reductions and don’t have to spend all the time and money on year after year chemical control, it makes all that previous effort worth it.\r\n\r\nIf you have a dandelion presence now in your lawn, first try to establish a tolerance for it. A couple dandelions here and there will not bother anyone and can easily be managed manually.  For significant dandelion problems, we encourage you to apply an <a href=\"http://www.ipm.ucdavis.edu/PMG/PESTNOTES/pn7469.html\" target=\"_blank\">Integrated Pest Management approach</a> of limiting your chemical use for the problem and choosing a product with the least toxicity to human health and the environment.  Find tips on this approach <a href=\"https://d3n8a8pro7vhmx.cloudfront.net/ncap/pages/44/attachments/original/1429733273/dandelions.pdf?1429733273\" target=\"_blank\">here</a> and <a href=\"https://www.beyondpesticides.org/assets/media/documents/alternatives/factsheets/Least%20toxic%20control%20of%20weeds.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">here</a>. Finally some after the fact natural treatments include <a href=\"http://www.pesticide.org/vinegar_herbicides\" target=\"_blank\">vinegar</a>, <a href=\"http://diagnostics.montana.edu/plant/topics/herbicidalsoaps.html\" target=\"_blank\">herbicidal soaps</a>, and <a href=\"https://extension.umd.edu/sites/default/files/_docs/programs/ipmnet/Iron%20Herbicide%20Info-UMD-IPMnet.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">iron-based herbicides</a>.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;','Dealing with Dandelions','','inherit','closed','open','','3190-revision-v1','','','2016-05-31 20:22:10','2016-05-31 20:22:10','',3190,'http://midwestpesticideaction.org/3190-revision-v1/',0,'revision','',0),(3206,2,'2016-05-31 20:22:36','2016-05-31 20:22:36','<h3>Getting rid of dandelions the safe way (even though they\'re beneficial!)</h3>\r\nFor the countless times I’ve discussed “natural” strategies to eliminate dandelions, I can’t recall a <img class=\"alignright wp-image-3193\" src=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/dandelion-1306911_1920.jpg\" alt=\"dandelion-1306911_1920\" width=\"357\" height=\"237\" />single question on how they first became a staple “weed” in our American lawns! Yes, we all know these yellow sunflowers use “parachutes” to spread their seeds in every which crack, crevice, and opening of your lawn, but did you know that this abundant plant species originates from Europe?\r\n\r\nSince the Puritans introduced them to the New World, dandelions have played a role in <a href=\"http://www.georgiawildlife.com/node/3007\" target=\"_blank\">American history</a>. During the civil war, Confederate soldiers replaced coffee with dried dandelion roots. Herbalists used the roots to treat <a href=\"http://umm.edu/health/medical/altmed/herb/dandelion\" target=\"_blank\">liver and gallbladder disease</a>, since their leaves possess diuretic properties that increase the amount of urine in your body to improve appetite, digestion, and kidney function.\r\n\r\nEvery part of this so-called weed is edible and can add <a href=\"http://www.naturallivingideas.com/things-to-do-with-dandelions/\" target=\"_blank\">flavor and nutritional value</a> to your next salad, sandwich, and/or tea with its bounty of vitamins (A, B, C, and D) and minerals (iron, potassium, and zinc). Somewhere down the line, however, we stopped valuing these plants for their human health contributions and began typecasting them as an eyesore for our ideal green and lush lawns.\r\n\r\nKnowing its ability to improve human health, aerate your soil, and attract pest eating ladybugs, I would encourage you to embrace the dandelion. Nevertheless, I am not oblivious to the pressures forcing your hand to manage them.\r\n\r\nWhen contemplating how to get rid of dandelions, ask whether you want to apply the same control each year for the recurring dandelion symptom or do you want to tackle the root cause of the symptom and avoid repetition year after year? I can offer natural vinegar products and pre-emergent herbicides (i.e. <a href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/corn-gluten-meal-the-dos-and-donts/\" target=\"_blank\">corn gluten</a>) that will kill these broadleaf weeds, but, just like with synthetic herbicides, these products do not address compacted, low pH, and nutrient imbalanced soil conditions that favor dandelion growth.\r\n\r\nLucky for you, many practices for growing strong and resilient turf limit these favorable soil conditions <a href=\"http://msue.anr.msu.edu/news/mow_high_for_weed_and_grub_control\" target=\"_blank\">starting with mowing high</a>. Maintaining tall grass takes away the sunlight and soil entryways that dandelion seeds need to germinate, reduces the likeliness of scalping/damage of grass cells, and increases root mass and strength. In addition to mowing high, great lawn managers will exercise every option for their turf to crowd out and prevent the germination of dandelions including overseeding gaps with grasses, leaving grass clippings to smother dandelion seeds and fertilizer, and watering deeply and infrequently to encourage deeper root growth.\r\n\r\nHealthy, strong, and dense turf will battle and prevent many dandelion seeds from germinating in your lawn, but when seeds breach this first line of defense you’ll need the reinforcements of the billions of bacteria, protozoa, nematodes, and arthropods inhabiting your soil. Keeping these reinforcements happy requires a keen sense for their preferred soil nutrients, maintenance, and structure. Organizations from our list of soil test providers will measure the essential soil factors for life and provide recommendations for how to best treat your soil for grass growth using many of the aeration and soil amendment techniques that I <a href=\"http://midwestpesticideaction.org/worryaboutthebottomdwellers/\" target=\"_blank\">discussed in last month’s post</a>.\r\n\r\nBy applying your soil test provider’s suggestions and maintaining the tall, dense turf I described earlier, you should see reductions in the dreaded yellow flower. If you do not see reductions this year don’t be discouraged. It takes time and care to build-up healthy, resilient soil and turf, especially if the lawn highly depended on synthetic fertilizers and pesticides for growth previously.  For some lawn managers, this process may take between three and five years to holistically address dandelions, but once they see reductions and don’t have to spend all the time and money on year after year chemical control, it makes all that previous effort worth it.\r\n\r\nIf you have a dandelion presence now in your lawn, first try to establish a tolerance for it. A couple dandelions here and there will not bother anyone and can easily be managed manually.  For significant dandelion problems, we encourage you to apply an <a href=\"http://www.ipm.ucdavis.edu/PMG/PESTNOTES/pn7469.html\" target=\"_blank\">Integrated Pest Management approach</a> of limiting your chemical use for the problem and choosing a product with the least toxicity to human health and the environment.  Find tips on this approach <a href=\"https://d3n8a8pro7vhmx.cloudfront.net/ncap/pages/44/attachments/original/1429733273/dandelions.pdf?1429733273\" target=\"_blank\">here</a> and <a href=\"https://www.beyondpesticides.org/assets/media/documents/alternatives/factsheets/Least%20toxic%20control%20of%20weeds.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">here</a>. Finally some after the fact natural treatments include <a href=\"http://www.pesticide.org/vinegar_herbicides\" target=\"_blank\">vinegar</a>, <a href=\"http://diagnostics.montana.edu/plant/topics/herbicidalsoaps.html\" target=\"_blank\">herbicidal soaps</a>, and <a href=\"https://extension.umd.edu/sites/default/files/_docs/programs/ipmnet/Iron%20Herbicide%20Info-UMD-IPMnet.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">iron-based herbicides</a>.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;','Dealing with Dandelions','','inherit','closed','open','','3190-revision-v1','','','2016-05-31 20:22:36','2016-05-31 20:22:36','',3190,'http://midwestpesticideaction.org/3190-revision-v1/',0,'revision','',0),