Guidelines for Turf Management

The construction processes associated with residential and commercial development typically removes all vegetation, strips much of the topsoil, and relies on extensive grading. This permanently alters the drainage dynamics of the native soil by simplifying topography and compacting subsoils. The development process is often ‘completed’ with the addition of a thin layer of ‘top-soil’ or ‘loam’ directly on top of a highly compacted mineral soil. The resulting soil conditions limit the depth to which plant roots can travel, compromising water infiltration, storage capacity, and the depth of carbon sequestration. These conditions can limit landscape performance for decades or longer and require higher inputs of fertilizer, water, and other labor to sustain a functional landscape.

Where development on current green space is unavoidable, implement requirements for achieving high soil performance following construction.

Here are Guidelines for Construction that can help to ensure that construction practices can contribute to soil health and municipal long term climate goals.

Climate Resilience

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