The most recent installment of the Star Tribune's "Vanishing Prairie" series had a great message ("In harnessing land, farmer preserves it," Dec. 29). At first glance, the message seems directed at those with a vested interest in farming.

Dick Thompson was ahead of his time in the late 1960s when he first embraced an integrated pest-management plan that balanced environmental stewardship and chemically intensive agriculture. Today, people with lawns and gardens can apply this same mind-set and commitment to the environment by implementing the best management practices adopted by Thompson.

Responsible use of lawn and garden fertilizers and pesticides will help reduce the adverse impact associated with their use. Judicious and responsible use of these products will help keep our air, soil, surface and groundwater cleaner. Let's all join in Thompson's effort to create a better environment.

JOE CHURCHILL, MINNETONKA