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Heather L. Venhaus posted an update in the group Residential Design Group 14 years, 9 months ago
I believe the solution is to first accept the dual responsibility built landscapes hold in both causing environmental degradation AND protecting and restoring the ecosystem services we depend upon.
I agree with David, we can not and should not eliminate turf completely from our landscapes. There are many scenarios where mowed lawn is the best solution. However, when considering design options we should move forward with measured judgement asking ourselves how much lawn/turf grass is actually needed and serves a function beyond aesthetics. In addition, what turf types require the least water, maintenance and chemical input to stay vibrant and robust. What maintenance practices and equipment release the least greenhouse gases. When can the lawn be maintained so that site users do not come into contact with harmful pollutants. I do not believe we have to jump to one side or the other – lawn or no lawn – but instead think before we design.