150 residents changed from using traditional chemical lawn care products to non-toxic products or organic materials. 75 of these residents attended workshops led by experts on organic lawn care and proper disposal of toxic lawn care products. These 75 residents recruited an additional 75 as “buddies” in the program. Program participants were given organic fertilizer as part of the program. Small, colorful lawn signs were also given to participants so they could let neighbors know about their activities. A sample of participants was surveyed and most reported making several changes to their lawn practices as a result of the program.

The program was promoted through a series of twelve articles appearing in the neighborhood newsletter “Comotion” (circulation 5,600), through a kick-off at the annual fall Cookout, and at other meetings during the year. Over 200 people learned about non-toxic lawn care at information tables at these events. Thirty people also learned about vermicomposting at a special booth at the Cookout. To model waste reduction, the organizers reduced the waste generated at the Cookout by 50% over the previous year. Information on organic lawn care will continue to be available at the SE Como office, and the Cookout will permanently be designed as a low-waste event.