Connect with us

Government

Rockland County Promotes Native Plants and Water-Smart Landscaping

Published

3 hours ago

on

The Water Advisory Council is encouraging residents to embrace water-smart landscaping practices that conserve water and support environmental health.

Officials recommend reducing nonfunctional lawn areas and replacing them with native plants, drought-tolerant landscaping, rain gardens, bioswales, and rain barrels. These practices help reduce water consumption, manage stormwater runoff, improve groundwater recharge, and increase resilience to climate change.

According to the Council, water demand in Rockland County rises from an average of 30 million gallons per day to as much as 45 million gallons per day during the warmer months, placing additional strain on local water supplies.

Residents are encouraged to consider native plants such as Creeping Phlox, Foamflower ‘Elizabeth Oliver,’ and Jacob’s Ladder, which require less watering once established and are well-suited to local conditions.

Examples of successful rain gardens featuring native plants can be found at Orangeburg Library, Bowline Point Park, Kennedy Dells County Park, and Piermont Library.

By replacing sections of lawn with native plants and incorporating features that manage rainwater naturally, residents can play a direct role in protecting Rockland County’s water resources.

The initiative is part of the county’s ongoing effort to promote sustainable landscaping and encourage participation in the national “Less Lawn More Life” movement.

Related Topics:
Continue Reading
Advertisement
Click to comment

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Government

Rockland Conservation & Service Corps Stream Team Helps Prevent Flooding and Protect Waterways

Published

4 hours ago

on

June 3, 2026

By

Members of the Rockland Conservation & Service Corps are helping protect local communities through their work with the Rockland County Drainage Agency, inspecting and assessing streams throughout Rockland County.

The Corps’ Stream Team identifies obstructions such as fallen trees, debris, and sediment buildup that can restrict water flow and contribute to flooding during heavy storms. Members also document illicit discharges, erosion issues, and areas in need of sediment remediation.

The information collected helps county officials address potential problems before they become larger environmental or public safety concerns.

In addition to reducing flood risks, the Stream Team’s work supports water quality and helps maintain healthy ecosystems throughout the county. By monitoring local waterways and identifying issues early, the team plays an important role in protecting Rockland County’s natural resources and strengthening community resilience.

Officials say the partnership highlights the importance of proactive environmental stewardship and ongoing efforts to keep Rockland County’s streams healthy, safe, and flowing properly.

Continue Reading

Government

Rockland County Bicycle Safety Awareness

Published

4 days ago

on

May 30, 2026

By

Rockland County officials are urging both cyclists and motorists to prioritize roadway safety following a rise in bicycle-related crashes across the county in 2024.

According to the Traffic Safety Statistical Repository, Rockland County recorded 90 bicycle-vehicle crashes last year, resulting in one fatality and 83 injuries. Officials say the statistics underscore the ongoing need for increased awareness, safer riding habits, and greater cooperation between drivers and bicyclists on local roads.

Under New York State law, bicyclists are required to follow the same traffic laws as motorists and are granted the same rights on the road. County officials emphasized that safe cycling includes obeying traffic signals, using proper hand signals, and ensuring bicycles are equipped with required safety features such as lights and reflectors.

Helmet use remains one of the most effective ways to reduce the risk of serious injury, particularly for children. In Rockland County, all bicyclists are required by law to wear a helmet.

Officials are encouraging cyclists to take several precautions when riding, including:

  • Wearing a properly fitted helmet at all times
  • Riding in the direction of traffic and obeying all signs and signals
  • Using front white lights, rear red lights or reflectors, and reflective clothing when riding at night
  • Avoiding distractions such as phones or headphones
  • Using hand signals before turning or stopping
  • Riding predictably and remaining visible to drivers
  • Never riding under the influence of alcohol or drugs

Motorists are also being reminded to do their part by remaining alert, checking blind spots, sharing the road responsibly, and allowing safe passing distance when near cyclists.

“Eyes on the Road, Rockland. Stay alert. Follow the rules. Look out for one another,” county officials said in the public safety reminder.

More information about bicycle and pedestrian safety is available through the Rockland County Safe Streets page.

Continue Reading

Trending