If you have a property that’s in or near any environmentally sensitive area, a more common reality than many homeowners realize, certain landscaping elements can be a bit difficult to assess. Due to local conservation commissions and regulations in place to protect these kinds of areas – rules that are often stricter than state guidelines, even – there might be limitations on the kinds of landscaping projects and lawn care you can take part in.
At Greenside, we’re here to help if this is the case on your property. Here are some basic tips we can offer when it comes to designing a great landscape without breaking any environmental laws or regulations.
Clear Goals
If you’re already dealing with a conservation commission or another governing body that takes issue with your landscaping, or even if you fear this might be the case in the future, the biggest thing you can do is be extremely clear about your plans and goals for your space. Are you looking for more recreational areas or sunlight? What about tree removal or lawn care areas that may impact the environment? Make these areas as plain as you can.
In cases where your project deals with low spots, high spots or tree removal, you may have to submit an application to one of these commissions. It makes no sense to fight this or take a combative attitude – this will only reduce your chances of success.
Buffer Between Landscaping and Water Resources
If your landscaping is near a water resource, such as a watershed of any kind, you need to set aside an area to separate your landscape from this resource and filter any run-off that might take place. If you’re removing trees from landscaping, they often function well as buffer zone items.
Ecologically Friendly Lawn Considerations
In many cases, the bodies you’ll run into here view larger lawns as a big negative. They consume lots of water and fertilizer, which can pollute nearby water sources.
To help combat this, think about environmentally friendly changes to your lawn. Our lawn expert professionals can show you grass blends that use less water and fertilizer, plus come with fewer mowing needs – this in turn cuts down on pollution and gasoline consumption.
For more on how to get a great landscape without environmental regulation concerns, or for any of our landscaping services, speak to the pros at Greenside today.