Hamilton County Conservation District
DRG improved an existing detention basin by replacing turfgrass with native plants, enhancing its ability to manage stormwater runoff and remove pollutants. DRG's restoration prioritized community needs, cost efficiency, and ecological sustainability, employing herbicides and diverse plantings.
A Much-Needed Restoration
Davey Resource Group, Inc. (DRG) was contacted by the Hamilton County Conservation District to retrofit an existing detention basin with native vegetation. By replacing the shallow-rooted turfgrass with deeper-rooted native plants, the detention basin’s capacity to manage stormwater runoff via evapotranspiration and increased soil percolation was enhanced. These native plants also aided in removing harmful particulates from stormwater runoff, such as hydrocarbons, sediment, and excess nutrients.
Getting The Balance Right
DRG developed a restoration solution that struck a favorable balance between community needs, cost efficiencies, and ecological sustainability. Mesic and transitional plant species were identified for replanting. After applying an aquatic-safe foliar herbicide to eliminate existing turfgrass, DRG installed a mix of native herbaceous plugs, containerized herbaceous plants, and containerized grasses. To ensure a sufficient root matrix, DRG’s environmental technicians and biologists uniformly distributed more considerable stock plant material throughout the project area.
Additionally, DRG will provide maintenance services for the project area throughout the growing seasons of 2022 and 2023. These services include watering the newly installed vegetation during the 2022 growing season and targeted removal of non-native or aggressive vegetation.
>> Learn more about the DRG Southern Ohio team’s work
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