Many schools have grass lawns that require pesticide, fertilizer, grass seed, frequent trims, and lots of water. Switching to a low-input lawn can save schools money, improve local water quality, and reduce human exposure to hazardous chemicals.
Students can also learn about green land management practices by observing the low-input lawn.
This project will require a team that includes groundskeeping staff.
MI Green Schools category:
Environmental protection
This project impacts:
Academics and engagement
Grounds and infrastructure
Operations and procurement
Cost scale:
$0 - free resources and recycled materials
$25 - $75 - minor purchases or fundraising necessary
$100 - $500 - significant fundraising necessary
Resources
For adult and youth leaders
- Landowner's Guide: Grasses & Ground Cover Pages 200 – 203 (Michigan Department of Natural Resources)
- Low Maintenance Lawns in the Midwest (Michigan State University Extension)