Ten property owners convert to low-input turf from Lawns Reimagined pilot

The Lawns Reimagined pilot program helped ten property owners convert traditional turf grass lawns to a low-input, resilient fescue grass lawn. The Dakota County Environmental Resources Department, Vermillion River Watershed Joint Powers Organization, and Dakota County Soil and Water Conservation District developed the program.

Fescue grasses are slower growing and require less fertilizing, watering, and mowing compared to traditional turf grass (typically Kentucky bluegrass or ryegrass). Participants prepared their yard and seed bed, spread compost, and planted fescue seed. All lawn installations were completed in fall 2024.

SWCD oversaw participant grants and approved lawn projects. SWCD also provided fescue grass seed and technical assistance, including on-site plan reviews and follow-up site visits.

The Environmental Resources Department partnered with the Shakopee Mdewakanton Sioux Community (SMSC) Organics Recycling Facility to provide the compost and educate participants on benefits of using compost. Each participant was offered up to five cubic yards of high-quality compost delivered to their home at no cost. When applied, compost provides a nutrient-filled seed bed for germination and conserves soil and water resources.  

This effort aligns with goals in three plans:

Vermillion River Watershed Management Plan and Dakota County Groundwater Plan for reducing groundwater use, less water quality impact, and improving the sustainability of lawn care by addressing the environmental impacts from typical frequent mowing

Dakota County Solid Waste Master Plan (2018-2038) to encourage use of compost in county projects

The pilot program is being evaluated for future benefits including addition of other low input turf seed varieties, such as pollinator-friendly plants.