Background:
At the September 2020 regular Park & Recreation Commission meeting, the topic of alternatives to typical turfgrass maintenance was discussed, primarily in the context of cost savings that could be garnered by Plant Growth Regulators (PGR's) or conversion to naturalized landscapes.  The unanimous consensus of the Commission was that as a matter of policy, the City should consider the conversion of some new or existing public lands to a ground cover that does not require weekly mowing—and to look at cultural practices like reduced mowing regimes (and visual expectations), as well as potentially the application of PGR's. 

The above policy also recognizes that there are many acres of park land in the community that will and should remain as traditional turfgrass, like athletic fields, walking areas and informal play areas or leisure areas around playgrounds or the amphitheater etc.

Pearson Park, (the site of that Commission meeting), was an example of an alternative ground cover—that while is not cost-free, is certainly at a much less expense annually, in terms of what would be a weekly mobilization of people and equipment to mow the slopes around the playground. And further, that naturalized landscapes typically do not require costly irrigation.

The preponderance of those areas currently being mowed, are likely to remain so.  However among the many reasons to reconsider turfgrass for ground cover in areas in parks where there is not a identifiable reason for it, cost accounting is one factor.  There also is the benefit of less chemicals (fertilizers and herbicides) introduced into the environment, reduced pollutants (noise, water and air), and for visual interest (aesthetics—flowering plants and a diversity forbs, shrubs, grasses and trees add beauty to the landscape).  Additionally, habitat for all manner of wildlife is greatly increased over monoculture turfgrass.

 A very brief summary of some of the above benefits are highlighted within this link: https://conservationtools.org/guides/151-from-lawn-to-meadow

Purpose:
As indicated, the Commission acknowledged the implementation of this turfgrass options and alternatives policy at the end of the growing season in 2020. The purpose of this case is to report on the direction of this endeavor as Staff begins the workplan and analysis. 

 

More information and examples of the implementation of the aforementioned policy will be available at the meeting.  Additionally, the first two attachments below are an exhibit of  PGR experimental area at Elmcrest Park, and also a maintenance plan for the South Half of Rivers' Bend Park. Page 23 of this plan illustrates several areas of mowed area that should be converted to naturalized ground cover.

The primary subject of this case may entail a reduction in General Fund maintenance obligations (costs) over time.

Staff recommends that the analysis of the use of PGR's at Elmcrest Park's soccer field be the topic of a case before the Commission in October of 2021.

Informational, no action required.