Low Impact Development Manual for Michigan - OSEH - University ...

Figure 7.31
Native meadow species compared to turf grass
Source: JFNew
If the objective is to revegetate an area with woodland
species, the longer-term effect is a significant reduction
in runoff volumes when contrasted with a conventional
lawn planting. This decrease in runoff is caused by
increases in interception, infiltration, evapotranspiration,
and recharge. Peak runoff rate reduction also is
achieved. Similarly, prairie reestablishment is also more
beneficial than a conventional lawn planting. Again,
these benefits are long term in nature and will not be
apparent until the species have an opportunity to grow
and mature (one advantage of the prairie planting is that
this maturation process requires considerably less time
than a woodland area).
In general, seeded prairie plantings grow roots in the
first two years of planting, and by the third year, start to
show substantial top growth. Therefore, a prairie planting
may not be aesthetically pleasing during the first
several years. Aesthetic expectations should therefore
be adjusted accordingly. Posting signs explaining this
fact to passersby can increase understanding and alleviate
concerns about the look of the new planting. The
signs can also explain the environmental benefits of
planting native grasses.
LID Manual for Michigan – Chapter 7 Page 232