An Innovative Approach to Water Conservation Coming to the Community
Updated on July 23, 2024
In partnership with the City of Boulder, Resource Central, an award-winning conservation nonprofit, will conduct a non-chemical turf removal project north of Baseline Road (between Gilpin Drive and Inca Parkway).
Beginning in August 2024, this project aims to test methods for removing large areas of thirsty turf grass without using chemicals or herbicides. After removing the existing Kentucky bluegrass, waterwise native grasses will be planted.
The project will test several non-chemical turf removal options, including:
- Roto-tilling
- Removing sod with a skid steer and taking it offsite
- Removing sod with a skid steer and placing it in a shaker deck to shake free excess topsoil
- Applying steam to kill grass
Date & Anticipated Activities
- August 1-2, 2024: Begin steam treatment
- August 6-12, 2024: Begin sod removal, including use of shaker deck machine, roto-tiller and steam-weeder
- Between August 12-22, 2024: Apply second steam treatment and re-seed the plot with native grasses
- August 2024 – June 2025: Weed management
Starting in early August 2024, neighbors can expect to see work on-site Monday through Friday, between 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. Equipment will include a skid steer, rototiller, dumpster, steam-weeder, and shaker deck. From August 6 to 10, about 50 feet of sidewalk along Gilpin Drive will be blocked for safety, and parking will be reserved for construction vehicles.
If you have any questions or concerns, please contact Tracy Ayres, Water Program Manager, 303-999-3820 ext. 107.
