Ensuring that your mower chute points away from streets, sidewalks, and driveways can reduce phosphorus in local ponds. Follow the link to learn more...
Grass clippings contain high amounts of phosphorus. It is estimated that 10 gallons of grass clippings can produce as much as 50 pounds of algae in local lakes. Keeping grass clippings off of hard surfaces like driveways, sidewalks, and streets prevents them from being washed into stormdrains connected directly to lakes, ponds, and wetlands. Grass clippings blown onto hard surfaces should be swept up after every mowing to reduce pollution in local lakes.
You can save some clean up time by mowing in a pattern that directs grass clippings away from hard surfaces and towards your yard. For example, if your mower chute points to the right, mowing in a clockwise pattern will direct grass clippings toward your yard and keep them off of hard surfaces. Mow counterclockwise for a mower with a chute that points to the left. Using a mulching mower or bagging grass clippings is another option. Leaving grass clippings on the lawn does not harm it and can reduce fertilizer needs.
Sometimes it only takes a simple change to make a real impact.