Farmland Quote by Toby Hemenway
““The average yard is both an ecological and agricultural desert. The prime offender is short-mown grass, which offers no habitat and nothing for people except a place to sit, yet sucks down far more water and chemicals than a comparable amount of farmland.””
About This Quote
Source Book: Creating a Sustainable World, 2009
Short‑mown lawns create ecological and agricultural deserts, consuming excess water and chemicals while offering little habitat or benefit.
In simple terms: Mown lawns harm environment and waste resources.
Key Takeaway
Replace short‑mown grass with diverse, low‑maintenance planting.
Themes
environment
agriculture
water use
habitat
sustainability
Mood
concerned
hopeful
Type
practical
inspirational
When to use this quote
- urban landscaping
- community gardens
- school grounds
- private yards
Key Concepts
ecosystem services
land management
resource efficiency
Questions to Reflect On
- What native plants could replace lawns in your area?
- How can policy encourage sustainable landscaping?
A Different Perspective
Homeowners may resist changing aesthetic preferences.
