Hillside Pollinator
Project Status: On-going Management
Location: Clearwater, MN
The Challenge: This 1/10-acre site in Clearwater presented a unique challenge: a sandy hillside where establishing traditional turf grass proved difficult. Our client envisioned a solution that would not only stabilize the eroding slope but also create a low-maintenance, aesthetically pleasing landscape teeming with native wildflowers.
Our Goals:
Reduce Soil Erosion: Stabilizing the sandy hillside with deep-rooted native vegetation.
Maintenance Free: Establishing a self-sustaining native plant community requiring minimal upkeep.
Esthetically Pleasing with Various Native Flowers: Creating a visually appealing landscape with a diverse array of blooming native species.
Project Timeline:
2023: Area Planted: The native plant installation was completed in 2023.
On-going Management through 2027: We are currently in the active management phase to ensure the long-term success and health of the planting.
Early Successes:
We are thrilled with the initial results of this project! The native planting has established beyond our expectations for its first year. We've already observed an increase in wildlife viewing, with frequent sightings of deer and turkey utilizing the new habitat. Most importantly, the soil stability has significantly improved, and we've seen no evidence of washouts on the hillside.
Looking Ahead:
Our ongoing management will focus on supporting the continued establishment and diversification of the native plant community. We'll be monitoring for any potential challenges and implementing strategies to ensure this beautiful and functional landscape thrives for years to come. Stay tuned for more updates on its progress!
