Victory for Ottawa Gardeners

cross posted at Ecojustice

In a victory for homeowners and natural gardeners alike, Ottawa residents Henry and Vera Jones are celebrating the city's decision to rescind the violation notice they issued over the couple's natural, pesticide free garden.

Ecojustice lawyer Will Amos represented the couple in their fight against City Hall, but thanks to this decision by Ottawa officials, all parties can now work together and avoid a legal battle.

"There's a recognition that the times have changed and that natural gardening is already and will continue to become even more a socially acceptable use of people's gardens," said Amos.

The decision has widespread relevance for Ontario’s municipalities since the provincial ban on cosmetic pesticide use went into effect in April. That law offers greater protection to people’s health by banning the cosmetic use of 2,4-D and other pesticides that have been associated with neurological and reproductive disorders, as well as cancer.

Looking ahead, the case represents a huge step forward for healthy gardening and the rights of people who want an alternative to chemically treated lawns and yards.

Read the media release for more.