I want to thank Councilor Jay Trickett for listening to Falmouth homeowners and his extensive research that the pesticide ordinance was not necessary. His eloquent rebuttal and “no” vote were appreciated.

Unfortunately, the ordinance passed because other Falmouth councilors voted for it or wanted it extended to golf courses.

Town councilors are not listening to their constituents! Surveys showed that homeowners were against the ordinance and the outpouring of homeowners who spoke or wrote against the ordinance was massive.

The ordinance prevents “any non-synthetic substance” which is “prohibited” for growing food and requires treating a lawn as if you were growing “organic food.” Fertilizer application is limited to two times per year with “a maximum of 2 pounds of nitrogen per 1,000 square feet.” You will be prevented from killing crab grass, broadleaf weeds, clover or grub worms using approved products.

The ordinance exempts many users including: commercial agriculture and commercial horticulture; golf course playing surfaces; public utility right of ways; the Town of Falmouth, Maine Department of Transportation and Maine Turnpike Authority; and athletic fields managed by the town and Falmouth School Department.

A group of concerned homeowners is determining whether to gather petitions and cause the ordinance to be voted on by Falmouth homeowners.

We hope that you will sign a petition to recall this unnecessary ordinance. The state licenses professional applicators and the federal government approves fertilizers and pesticides that we can use on our lawn.

Let’s vote on the ordinance!

James Solley
Falmouth