VEGETATION RECOMMENDATION: STORMWATER MANAGEMENT

Plants that can tolerate periods of drought and periods of inundation should be selected for bioretention areas. Bunch grasses, sedges, and turf grass can provide low maintenance sediment pre-treatment when planted at the inlet. Their upright growth structure traps sediment and their deep roots absorb water effectively.³

Any plants from other palettes listed as rain garden species can be considered for these areas. Priority should be given to planting plants known for their resilience to suburban conditions, especially salt since these areas will be recieving runoff from roads.

Managed Meadow

Approximately 4.6 acres of turf grass field are kept in the final design proposal. This space accommodates youth sports practices and large events like Hanover Day. Just under two acres of native, managed meadow replace the patchy northwest field.

Reducing the amount of turf grass, and thus the amount of lawn mowing, on the site has positive environmental implications. The EPA estimates that over 17 million gallons of fuel, mostly gasoline, are spilled each year while refueling lawn equipment—more than all the oil spilled by the Exxon Valdez in the Gulf of Alaska.¹ Especially given the fields’ location in an aquifer protection area, all actions that protect the groundwater from contamination are important.

Additionally, replacing the current turf grass with seed mixes more resilient to the hot, dry conditions on site will help reduce turf maintenance, including the need for intensive watering and mowing.

Premium athletic field mixes used to seed the field currently are blends of Kentucky bluegrass (70%) and turf-type perennial ryegrasses (30%). When in full sun, like at B. Everett Hall Field, Kentucky bluegrass requires significant water to remain a healthy, dominant groundcover. "Ecograss" mixes that require less water can be used as an alternative for sports fields. For lawn areas that are not intended for heavy recreational use, grass mixes with varieties that grow no taller than 8 inches provide the option for a low- to no-mow maintenance approach, while still providing a groundcover conducive for picnicking and that can withstand the impact of foot traffic.

Where the northwest field is dry, patchy, and lumpy, maintaining highquality sports fields is an uphill battle. Replaced with 1.88 acres of managed meadow, the space can become a destination for walkers, with plants for multi-season interest, and pollinator habitat for insects.