Our Water Our World is an award-winning partnership between city- and county-based water pollution prevention agencies and garden centers and hardware stores that sell pest control products. We focus on less-toxic, eco-friendly products and techniques because many common pesticides are harmful to sensitive species and ecosystems when they reach local creeks, bays, and the ocean. Find out more about pesticides and water quality. Read our criteria for identifying less-toxic products.

Since 1999, local government agencies have supported the program, which includes

• Fact sheets for the public on a wide range of pest management topics
• Training for store employees
• Shelf tags and display materials stores use to guide customers to less-toxic products
• The “IPM Advocates” program, which provides in-store presentations and help for customers by trained gardeners and others who are knowledgable about pest management methods that are healthier for people and the environment
• Additional educational resources such as product lists and information about active ingredients in pest management products