SOUNDING OFF:

Editor’s note: This letter is in response to columnist Ron Vanderhoff’s July 26 article, “Moving closer to obsolete front lawns.”

Ron, you and I have known each other for many years, and it saddens me that you are marching in step with the “politically correct”(wearing blinders) philosophy. You have called on that philosophy (which dares not to show both sides of the story) in your column.

Lawns are a benefit to the environment and to you:

1. They absorb and entrap atmospheric pollutants (carbon dioxide, sulphur dioxide, etc.);

2. They release oxygen into the atmosphere;

3. They modify temperature around your home;

4. They help to abate noise;

5. They reduce glare;

6. They reduce soil erosion;

7. They offer the best in outdoor exercise;

8. They add value to your home;

9. They are partners in water purification;

10. You can relax on them or take an afternoon nap.

Most lawns in the coastal area need only 1 inch of water a week. Place small cups around your lawn, turn on your sprinklers and the time it takes to fill those cups with 1 inch of water is how long you keep your sprinklers on.

In my case, in Costa Mesa, it takes 25 minutes, and I set my timer to water five times a week for five minutes each time. My lawns are beautiful and restful to look at, and my neighborhood and my family love them.

Most people over-water, trying to soak the lawn all at one time, which causes runoff. For best results, water in the early morning (5 to 7 a.m.). If you water during the day, it evaporates too quickly. Do not water at night because that encourages lawn diseases.

Hopefully, you will allow your readers to hear the other side of the story.

DON KNIPP is a Costa Mesa resident.