Lawns Be Gone: Feasibility Study at Allegheny College Meadville, Pennsylvania
Project Author
Issue Date
2025-04-21
Authors
Scott , Ethan
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First Reader
Bowden , Rich
Additional Readers
Hatcher , Kurt
Keywords
Sustainable landscaping , Carbon emissions , Water consumption , Native plants , Ecological impact , Green spaces , Biodiversity , Pesticides and fertilizers
Distribution
Abstract
Urbanization is increasing the amount of land covered by turf or lawns. Lawns have long been associated with American infrastructure. They provide us with a dense and soft coverage that provides appealing aesthetics and potential for recreation or relaxation. Besides all the benefits lawns provide, their benefits are far outweighed by their negative environmental implications. The conventional lawn is a mix of non-native ornamental grasses which require a vast amount of inputs in maintenance, water, and chemicals, to maintain an aesthetically appealing appearance. This worsens water shortages in arid environments, contributes to air and water pollution, and reduces ecological function. However our cultural connection to lawn is very deeply rooted so finding a sustainable alternative that replicates the functionality and aesthetics of common turf grass is essential to creating a practical solution. Allegheny College is situated in the suburb of Meadville Pennsylvania and utilizes conventional turf lawns in their own landscape design. In this study I explored the feasibility of replacing conventional turf grass with a more sustainable alternative. Through site assessment, stakeholder input, and ecological evaluation, I identified native plant species that support biodiversity and align with the college's sustainability goals. The findings highlight the potential benefits of native landscaping, and the proposed plan provides a framework for implementation and long-term management of two suitable seed mixes from Ernst Conservation Seeds.
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Chair
Major
Environmental Science and Sustainability
Department
Environmental Science and Sustainability