07/31/2026
Turf Conversion Update — From Construction to Establishment 🌱
A few months ago, this area was traditional Kentucky bluegrass. Since then, we've removed turf, constructed a new water quality swale, installed stormwater conveyance features, amended soils, and prepared the site for long-term success.
Today, the main swale is largely complete.
Recent work included planting shrubs and maple trees, installing Dog Tuff grass plugs and buffalo grass, placing landscape boulders, completing the irrigation system, and installing protective fencing to help keep wildlife from damaging young vegetation. These plantings and landscape features were part of the original vision for the project and are now beginning to take shape. The landscape plan included a variety of native and water-wise grasses, shrubs, and trees to support both water conservation and stormwater management objectives.
The boulders placed near the downstream end of the swale will help slow water movement and encourage temporary ponding before runoff leaves the system, complementing the stormwater functions built throughout the project. The completed landscape also includes Buffalo Grass and Dog Tuff grass areas, along with maple trees and diverse shrub plantings.
With the swale now substantially complete, crews are shifting their attention to enhancements around SEMSWA's demonstration garden and areas adjacent to the office building. While these improvements are a smaller part of the overall project, they will help extend the water-wise landscaping theme throughout the campus.
The transformation is becoming easier to see with every update, and we're excited to watch the vegetation establish and mature in the coming seasons.
