Many people think green grass is one of the safest spots for kids to play. But if it's treated with chemical pesticides, studies are showing serious health risks.

New Jersey is leading the nation in establishing pesticide-free zones to protect kids, wildlife and drinking water ... and you can help.

Some eye-opening results recently came out of a ten-year survey of pesticide contamination by the U.S. Geological Survey:

Every surface water sample contained one or more pesticides or degradates (chemicals produced when pesticides break down), in many cases at levels that will kill aquatic life;

In other words, our nation's drinking water supplies are widely contaminated with pesticide chemicals that have been linked to everything from asthma and cancer to developmental and learning disabilities.

Kids and seniors are among those who are especially vulnerable. But the damage isn't limited to humans. Pesticides are also harmful to wildlife, from endangered species to the family dog, to the microscopic life that keeps the soil fertile.

The N.J. Environmental Federation (NJEF) is encouraging everyone from homeowners to county park managers to adopt pesticide-free zones.

NJEF is promoting the Declaration on the Use of Toxic Lawn Chemicals from the National Coalition for Pesticide-Free Lawns, and asking N.J. towns and counties to sign on, joining over 600 organizations and concerned citizens in establishing pesticide-free zones in parks and along waterways.

You can get in on the action. Ditch the toxic chemicals and ask your local nursery or landscaper for organic pest control options, or find a local "green" lawn service. The fact that your kids and pets can play safely in the yard immediately afterward, rather than staying off the lawn until the chemicals disperse is enough of a motivation to make the switch!

Learn how to bring the pesticide-free zone campaign to your home, town or county by calling NJEF's Jane Nogaki at 856-767-1110, or visiting www.cleanwateraction.org.

Michele S. Byers

executive director

New Jersey Conservation Foundation

Far Hills