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J, <br />Elk River -;= <br />Municipal Utilities <br />13069 Orono Parkway • PO. Box 430 <br />Elk River, MN 55330-0430 <br />February 6, 2008 <br />To: Elk River Municipal Utilities Commission <br />Jerry Takle <br />Jerry Gumphrey <br />Jim Tralle <br />From: Bryan Adams <br />Subject: Grass Test Plot <br />Phone: 763.441.2020 <br />Fax: 763.441.8099 <br />Utility and City Staff have been working on appropriate language for the proposed black dirt <br />policy ~~~e discussed at previous meetings. City Attorney Peter Beck is now reviewing this <br />proposed ordinance which is attached. <br />Vl-'e now have, an opportunity to take this policy to another level w~~ith the use of eco-grasses. Bill <br />Bronder with the Sherburne County Soil and Water Conservation District is applying for a state <br />grant to do some test plots using eco-grass. Mr. Bronder is looking at us to partner with his <br />office on this test. Typical grass used in our area is Kentucky Blue grass which requires much <br />water, fertilizer, and frequent mowing. Kentucky Blue grass is very drought intolerant and turns <br />brown while going dormant with loss of water. Eco-grass is anon-native fescue grass blend. <br />This grass needs much less water and fertilizer with extended mowing intervals. Eco-grass is <br />also much more drought tolerant. We would provide areas to do test plots in high visible areas <br />where Eco-grass and Kentucky Blue grass-would be exhibited side by side. We have available <br />areas by V~ells #2, 4, and 7 that have high visibility to the public. Our costs would be some staff <br />tune and up to $1000 for grass seed. Elk River Park and Recreation is also looking at <br />part;.cipating in this test. <br />Staff recommends authorization be given to partner with Sherburne County Soil and Water <br />Conservation District in this test. <br />