Keeping St. George Cool and Green

KEEPING ST. GEORGE COOL & GREEN

Urban heat islands are caused when areas are developed and have a lot of reflective or heat absorbing surfaces such as asphalt or concrete with very little landscaping. These hard surfaces retain the heat absorbed during the day and then retain the heat well into the night. The result is above average temperatures in the morning and higher than average temperatures throughout the day.

According to Craig Harvey, a Landscape Designer with the St. George Park Planning Division, the City has developed a strategy of using landscapes along our public streets and roads as a simple solution to mitigate the heat island effect. This helps create a more comfortable local environment and may provide other benefits for the City

SOLUTIONS

01- CHOOSE DROUGHTTOLERANT PLANTS

All landscaping along the public streets and roads use water-wise landscaping (often referred to ‘xeriscaping’), which uses plants that are native to the region or plants that are adapted to arid conditions

02- REDUCE IRRIGATION NEEDS

The maximum water usage per drip zone is 12 gallons per minute (or 720 gallons per hour) and each drip zone can water up to 27 trees or 180 shrubs On average, each drip zone will water 3-4 hours per week during the active growing season (May 1st to September 1st).

SOLUTIONS

03- MULCHING FOR MOISTURE RETENTION

While this may seem insignificant, using mulch in planting areas is important It helps to retain soil moisture and reduce watering frequency

04- CREATING MICROCLIMATES

Planting trees and shrubs strategically along roadways has many benefits for both pedestrians and drivers One of these is the formation of microclimates. This is done as trees create natural shade and release moisture through transpiration. This natural process cools the surrounding air, which provides relief from the scorching heat and makes outdoor spaces more comfortable

ENHANCED QUALITY OF LIFE

Access to green spaces has been linked to lower stress levels, improved mental health, and an overall higher quality of life.

IMPROVED PROPERTY VALUES

Numerous studies have indicated that properties with visually appealing yards and attractive streetscapes command higher values than those with minimal or no landscaping.

REDUCED DAILY TEMPERATURE

Areas that include more naturalized features can lead to a reduction in average daily temperatures when compared to places with mostly hard surfaces.