The road to the certification started in 1991. The first step for BTMUA was to replace chemical pesticides, de-icing agents, and petroleum-based fertilizers with organic and other environmentally safe products. The goal of this was to prevent runoff from carrying any pollutants into the Forge Pond. Another action taken was implementing the Integrated Pest Management program, which uses "good bugs to eat bad bugs" and avoids the need for pesticides. In addition to using bugs to control other bugs, Brick Utilities has installed a variety of bird housea to attract more species that will feed on pests like mosquitoes.