We the undersigned would like to join with friends, neighbors and community members in showing support for sustainable landscaping practices at HOAs across Loudoun County.

Living in a healthy environment is important to me as a Loudoun County resident. As a community resident who is served by a Homeowners Association, I would like to join with other residents of Loudoun County in asking my HOA to use more sustainable landscaping practices. Doing so would improve the health of our environment, limit exposure to pesticides and fertilizers, and reduce out-of-pocket costs. 

Sustainable landscaping practices include: 

• Reducing pesticide use -- Better for the health of people, pets and pollinators.
• More effective fertilizer management -- Saves money and reduces excess runoff and pollution of streams.
• Planting native shrubs and perennials -- Improves soil health. Requires less mowing which means less use of fossil fuels. It also means more food/habitat for beneficial insects and birds.
• Planting more (native) trees -- Trees provide better stormwater management than turf, they increases groundwater infiltration, provide more shade and comfort for residents, and better habitat & food sources for beneficial insects and birds.
• Eliminating the ornamental use of invasive non-natives -- Avoids spread and competition with native plants
• Removal of invasive plants in natural areas -- Allows natural balance and healthier ecosystems

More than 60% of Loudoun residents live in an HOA-community. If we all pursue healthier, more sustainable landscaping practices, it can make a real difference.