The Hamilton County Soil and Water Conservation District (SWCD) is launching a new program to help county residents implement conservation on their properties. A variety of tools are being made available for free check out by county residents for individual or group work days on public or private lands in Hamilton County.
Tools will be available for check out at the SWCD office in Noblesville for periods of up to 10 days. There is no charge for the tool loan but participants will need to sign a waiver and leave credit card info on file to ensure the return of the tools.
So far, the program is made up of three types of tools. One kick type sod cutter is available. This is a tool to manually remove turf (grass) sod from your yard for the creation of native plant or pollinator gardens. Four weed torches are available to help combat nuisance weeds like thistle and for weed control in organic gardens. Two torches run on 20 pound propane tanks and two on small canisters (not provided). Finally, seven puller bars of various sizes are available. These metal tools use leverage to clamp down on invasive shrubs and pull them out by the root. The puller bars can be used to remove invasive shrubs like honeysuckle, autumn olive, buckthorn and more.
This tool loan program supports the SWCD’s mission of promoting conservation across the county and improving our natural resources. Removing invasive species, creating pollinator habitat with native plants, and reducing chemical applications that can contribute to poor water quality all contribute greatly to a healthy ecosystem in Hamilton County.
“Sometimes specialized tools are cost prohibitive for individuals to purchase or people want to try something out before committing to buying their own. This program will allow county residents access to specialized tools that can make conservation improvements on their property easier and economical,” Claire Lane, SWCD Urban Conservationist shared. “Individual action on private property and work days on public lands make a big difference and we hope these tools will empower people to be good stewards of their land.”
Individuals interested in learning more about these tools and the program can visit hamiltonswcd.org, call 317-773-2181, or stop by the SWCD at 1717 Pleasant St. Suite 100 in Noblesville.