Florida Yards and Neighborhoods

The Polk County Florida Yards and Neighborhoods (FYN) program is a partnership of the University of Florida/Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (UF/IFAS), the the Alafia River, Hillsborough River and Peace River Basin Boards of the Southwest Florida Water Management District, the Polk County Board of County Commissioners, the Charlotte Harbor National Estuary Program, the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP), the Florida Sea Grant College Program, concerned citizens, members of private industry and numerous other nongovermental agencies. FYN addresses the serious problems of pollution in stormwater runoff, water shortages and disappearing habitats by enlisting Floridians in the battle to save our natural resources. The program, which is implemented through the Polk County UF/IFAS Cooperative Extension Service, provides education and outreach activities in the community to help residents reduce pollution, conserve water and enhance their environment by improving home and landscape management. This integrated approach to landscaping emphasizes nine interrelated principles: 1. Right plant, right place 2. Water efficiently 3. Fertilize appropriately 4. Mulch 5. Attract wildlife 6. Manage yard pests responsibly 7. Recycle yard wast 8. Reduce stormwater runoff 9. Protect the waterfront