Why cant I continue to maintain city property as turf grass?
Land next to the reservoirs edge plays an important role in protecting the quality of our primary drinking water supply. Rain water and snow melt can carry chemicals, excess nutrients, sediments and many other pollutants miles from their origin. A deep-rooted vegetative buffer of native trees and plants protects against soil erosion and acts as a filter, keeping contaminants from entering the water. Native plant roots can grow 15 to 20 feet deep while turf grass roots are typically only three inches long (graphic at right). The level of contaminants and soil particulates in our raw water supply also has an impact on drinking water treatment costs. Containing treatment costs helps keep water rates low for our customers. Click to see larger image.
