Welcome to the Village of Baxter Estates’ Sustainability Newsletter! We are excited to share several initiatives and services aimed at promoting environmental responsibility and sustainability in our community. Let’s work together to make our Village a greener, healthier place to live.
Programs and Rebates
Rebate on Smart Sprinkler Systems
The Port Washington Water District is offering a fantastic rebate program for residents who upgrade to smart sprinkler systems. These innovative systems can save you money on your water bill while helping conserve our precious water resources. Smart sprinklers automatically adjust watering schedules based on weather conditions, ensuring your lawn gets the right amount of water without waste.
To take advantage of this rebate, visit the Port Washington Water District website for details on eligible products and application procedures. Investing in a smart sprinkler system is a win-win for your wallet and the environment!
Rain Barrel and Composter Sale
The Town of North Hempstead is hosts an annual rain barrel and composter sale during the summer months. This program offers residents affordable options to collect rainwater and compost organic waste, both of which are excellent ways to reduce water usage and manage waste sustainably at a reduced cost.
- Rain Barrels: Capture and store rainwater from your roof to water your garden or lawn. This reduces your water bill and helps conserve municipal water supplies.
- Composters: Turn kitchen scraps and yard waste into nutrient-rich compost for your garden. Composting reduces landfill waste and enhances soil health.
Order your rain barrel and composter today through the Town of North Hempstead website and take a significant step towards sustainable living.
Ink Cartridge Recycling Program
Do you have unused or empty ink cartridges cluttering your home office? The Village of Baxter Estates is pleased to offer a convenient recycling program for ink cartridges. Simply drop off your unused or empty cartridges at Village Hall, and we’ll ensure they are properly recycled. This service helps reduce electronic waste and supports our community’s recycling efforts.
Recycling your ink cartridges is an easy way to contribute to environmental conservation. Join us in keeping our Village clean and green!
Native Plant Rebate Program
The Town of North Hempstead offers a rebate program for residents who plant native species in their landscapes. Native plants provide numerous environmental benefits, such as supporting local wildlife, reducing the need for irrigation and fertilizers, and improving soil health. If the funding for current year has already been exhausted, residents can join a waitlist for future opportunities. Planting native species is a great way to create a sustainable and beautiful garden. For more information, please visit the Town of North Hempstead’s website to read more about the program.
Septic Upgrade Grants
Nassau County offers grants to assist homeowners in upgrading outdated septic systems. These grants encourage the adoption of modern, environmentally friendly technologies, such as advanced treatment systems or connecting to public sewer systems. By offsetting upgrade costs, the county empowers residents to contribute to cleaner waterways and groundwater protection. For eligibility and further details, homeowners can contact the County or visit the their official website.
Sustainability Reminders
Clean Up After Your Dog
It’s crucial to always carry a bag during walks to pick up after your dog. Dog waste left on the ground can be washed into storm drains, contributing to water pollution. Proper disposal in designated receptacles prevents contamination of local waterways, ensuring the environment stays clean and safe for all.
Use Eco-Friendly Lawn Care
Opt for organic or slow-release fertilizers for your lawn and garden to prevent nutrient pollution in water bodies. Avoiding pesticides and herbicides in favor of natural pest control methods like beneficial insects or non-toxic sprays maintains a healthier ecosystem. By making these choices, you’re not just caring for your lawn but also protecting the wider environment.
Proper Disposal of Household Waste
Proper Disposal of Household Hazardous Waste and Medical Waste: In the Town of North Hempstead, residents can utilize the STOP (Stop Throwing Out Pollutants) program to dispose of paints, solvents, and chemicals at designated hazardous waste collection sites, preventing environmental harm. Medical waste, including sharps, should never be discarded in regular trash or flushed down toilets, as it poses health risks and contaminates water supplies. It’s crucial to follow all physician’s instructions for medical waste disposal and never dispose of such items in regular garbage unless specifically instructed.
Native Plant Rebate Program
The Town of North Hempstead offers a rebate program for residents who plant native species in their landscapes. Native plants provide numerous environmental benefits, such as supporting local wildlife, reducing the need for irrigation and fertilizers, and improving soil health. If the funding for current year has already been exhausted, residents can join a waitlist for future opportunities. Planting native species is a great way to create a sustainable and beautiful garden. For more information, please visit the Town of North Hempstead’s website to read more about the program.
Install Rain Barrels
Maintain Your Septic System
Regular inspection and pumping of your septic system prevent leaks and overflows that can contaminate groundwater. By taking proactive measures, you’re safeguarding both the environment and public health. This maintenance ensures that your septic system operates efficiently, minimizing its environmental footprint.
Avoid Overwatering Your Lawn
Use Native Plants in Landscaping
Planting native species conserves water and reduces the need for fertilizers, minimizing runoff and erosion. These plants are adapted to local conditions, requiring less maintenance and support local wildlife populations. Incorporating native plants into your landscaping promotes biodiversity and contributes to a more resilient ecosystem.
The Town of North Hempstead offers a rebate program for residents who plant native species in their landscapes. For more information, please visit the Town of North Hempstead’s website to read more about the program.
Dispose of Pharmaceuticals Properly
Avoid flushing medications, which can contaminate water supplies. Instead, utilize designated pharmaceutical disposal sites or drug take-back programs, such as the Port Washington Police Department’s (PWPD) initiative, to ensure safe and proper disposal. This proactive approach prevents potential harm to aquatic ecosystems and human health, promoting a cleaner environment for all.
Reduce Single-Use Plastics
Opting for reusable bags, bottles, and containers minimizes plastic waste that can end up polluting water bodies. By reducing single-use plastics, you’re mitigating the impact of plastic pollution on marine life and ecosystems. Small changes in consumption habits can lead to significant benefits for the environment in the long run.
Participate in Community Cleanups
Joining local cleanup efforts, such as those organized by Baxter’s Pond Foundation and the Manhasset Bay Committee, removes litter from parks, streets, and waterways, preventing pollution. These community cleanups not only foster a sense of stewardship and pride in local environments but also promote awareness about waste management. By volunteering your time, you’re actively contributing to a cleaner, healthier community for everyone.
Recycle Responsibly
