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Sustainable Landscape
Sustainable Landscape: In the fall of 2003, local EPA staff members developed
a plan to replace approximately two acres of mowed lawn with a “sustainable” landscape
planting of native grasses and flowering plants. This modification to the lawn
was implemented through a contract with Boreal
Natives 
of Cloquet, MN and volunteer
efforts of local EPA staff. Initial work involved removing sod, tilling the
soil, planting hundreds of small plants, and sowing thousands of seeds. Follow
up work has included removal of invasive and non-native plant species (or “weeds”).
Typically plants and grasses take three to four years to become established,
and the new landscape appears to be following this trend. But why do this?
There are several reasons. In 2000, the President issued an Executive
Order mandating sustainable landscapes at federal facilities. EPA staff also realized
that implementing a sustainable landscape could result in substantial costs
savings related to lawn maintenance. In addition, a sustainable landscape is
consistent with and supports many of the land use ideals the EPA promotes.
The new landscape provides improved habitat for wildlife. Foxes, deer, woodchucks, and a variety of birds, butterflies, and dragonflies are regularly seen. The change from a lawn to nectar-producing flowers has resulted in an increase of beneficial insects such as bees. There is also a financial benefit, with approximately $3,000.00 in annual savings through reduced lawn mowing labor, equipment wear/maintenance, and fuel consumption.
EPA has recognized this landscape project by awarding the first annual Green Thumb Award to the Duluth EPA Landscaping Team for implementing onsite sustainable landscaping.