At our recent Ocean County Business Association (OCBA) lunch meeting, we were fortunate to hear from Becky Laboy, Education Outreach Specialist with the Ocean County Soil Conservation District.
Becky shared an informative presentation that brought home the importance of soil health, sustainable landscaping, and the role every business and resident can play in supporting a healthier Ocean County.
Why Soil Matters for Ocean County Businesses
As Becky highlighted, soil is a non-renewable resource—it takes thousands of years to form, and poor soil management can lead to erosion, pollution, and even ecosystem collapse.
In Ocean County, home to the Barnegat Bay watershed and sandy coastal soils, this is a particularly critical issue. Healthy soil supports healthy landscapes, clean water, and vibrant local economies.
For business owners, this topic isn’t just an environmental concern—it’s also about building community trust and resilience. From landscapers and real estate professionals to restaurant owners and contractors, understanding how to protect our soil and water resources is an investment in Ocean County’s long-term prosperity and quality of life.
Jersey-Friendly Yards: A Resource for All
A highlight of Becky’s talk was the Jersey-Friendly Yards initiative – a free program and website (www.jerseyyards.org) dedicated to helping homeowners, businesses, and property managers create beautiful, low-maintenance, and eco-friendly landscapes.
The initiative is more than just gardening; it’s a way for all of us to:
- Conserve water and protect local waterways like Barnegat Bay
- Minimize runoff and fertilizer pollution
- Support pollinators, birds, and other local wildlife
- Reduce maintenance costs and create attractive, functional spaces
Becky shared how local businesses and homeowners can access the Jersey-Friendly Yards online plant database, guides for managing runoff, and practical tips for incorporating native plants into landscaping projects.
Practical Business Takeaways
Becky also addressed concerns that many of us in the Ocean County business community share, such as:
- Stormwater runoff and flooding: Many businesses face flooding issues tied to soil compaction and poor drainage. Using native plants and incorporating rain gardens can help absorb water and reduce runoff.
- Eco-friendly branding: For businesses like landscapers, realtors, and property managers, promoting Jersey-Friendly Yards principles can set your brand apart and meet rising customer demand for sustainable practices.
- Cost-effective soil management: Composting, minimizing tilling, and understanding your soil’s composition can lower landscaping costs and improve plant health.
Real-World Example: Lisa’s Transformation
Becky shared an inspiring local success story – OCBA’s own Lisa Mazzuca and her family transformed their yard using Jersey-Friendly Yards resources. Starting with soil testing, they identified the unique challenges of their sandy soil, then added compost and planted native species that thrive in local conditions. The result? A beautiful, low-maintenance yard that attracts birds, supports pollinators, and minimizes runoff into Barnegat Bay.
Let’s Work Together for a Healthier Ocean County
Becky’s message resonated deeply with OCBA members: small steps in our businesses and properties can make a big difference. If you’re rethinking your landscaping, planning a new building project, or simply want to be a good neighbor, the Ocean County Soil Conservation District and Jersey-Friendly Yards are resources ready to help.
Visit www.soildistrict.org/educational-programs/ and www.jerseyyards.org to explore these free tools and get inspired.
Want to Learn More and Network with Like-Minded Professionals?
OCBA is proud to bring experts like Becky Laboy to share valuable insights that support both environmental stewardship and business growth in Ocean County. If you’re not a member yet, consider joining us!
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Together, let’s keep Ocean County a thriving place to live, work, and do business.