From time to time, the U.S. EPA warns that it may have to regulate the use of lawnmowers!! Oh my, you say, if they are regulating lawnmowers today, what will be next: electric tooth brushes? But, to many environmentalists and other concerned citizens, lawnmowers should be regulated, if not banned all together.

While air pollution from lawn care equipment seems at first to be trivial, it is not. Did you know that commercial and residential gardening equipment accounts for seven percent of the ozone forming pollutants from all mobile sources, including automobiles?

These lawn care appliances are real polluters. In fact, the EPA reached an agreement with lawnmower engine manufacturers which provides by the year 2005,lawnmower engines will be 40% cleaner than present engines.

Lawnmowers will likely cost more money to purchase and more money to operate once new engines are produced under this agreement. Perhaps, this will not be a real problem for homeowners. But how about commercial property owners with many acres of lawn that must be cut and trimmed and weed wacked? These properties already cost a substantial amount to keep neatly manicured.

With engine costs likely to rise, as will likely operating costs, commercial property owners will take a second look at whether it still makes sense to maintain that golf-course, manicured look.

One Cost Effective Option

The golf course look fits the traditional corporate image. But, that image is changing. A significant developing trend is to replace that classic look with natural landscaping, called "naturescaping." Planners and environmentalists are able to create a natural, native habitat, which replaces the classic manicured look. Back to nature means low maintenance -- it takes care of itself.

And surprise!! Grass cuttings can be reduced by 60%, and, as it turns out, the natural wildlife habitat may enhance the overall appearance of a site. Not to mention the public relations boost as well.

Naturescaping will be more carefully considered as the cost of maintaining the classic look continues to escalate. Clearly, the EPA's repeated warnings about lawnmowers will weigh into this decision-making process. Since dollars and cents are truly at issue, individuals and companies will want to take a close look at this environmentally friendly alternative.

How To Create A Naturescape

In a way it seems easy. If it is a naturescape, you don't have to do anything -- right? Wrong. A naturescape must be developed. Once the natural habitat takes root, then nature takes care of itself. But you must first get to that point.

Professional assistance is available and should be consulted. In general, a naturescape must include safe shelters for wildlife. Shelters take many forms, and allow wildlife to rest, escape, retreat and raise their young. Examples include thickets, hedges, logs and long grass.

Food sources are also required for a natural habitat. Vegetation that produces food in the form of seeds, nectar, berries and insects should be considered. Supplemental bird feeders may also be useful.

Clean fresh water is a must. Certain amphibians and insects require water to complete their life cycles. Running water is encouraged. Birdbaths, ponds, and shallow dishes may do.

Planning the naturescape requires mapping and an identification of what is already on the premises. Soil texture, slopes, and sun exposure should be mapped.

Planning should consider seasonal changes. It may take months or years for a habitat to develop into a completely self-sustaining environment.