Low-Maintenance Turf functions as a typical lawn but is composed of species that require less water and fewer inputs. This option may be appealing if you want to keep the appearance of a traditional lawn and have areas of frequent or intense use. Back to Turf Alternatives Home
Perennial Ground Cover can be created from a mix of tightly-knit grasses and flowering plants. If you have low-use, low-foot traffic areas and welcome a non-traditional look, this option offers the maximum ecological impact—though it requires an investment of planning, time, and money, and has higher maintenance needs at first. Back to Turf Alternatives Home
A Pollinator Lawn introduces a diversity of low-growing flowering plants into a typical lawn. This provides forage for pollinators, and the plants have deeper roots that need less watering. If you are not concerned with having a uniform carpet of green lawn in frequently-used areas, this may be the best option to help restore the…
Do you have areas in your yard where grass doesn’t want to grow? A native garden may be the solution.
Explore the tabs below for free downloads on a variety of topics related to planting for clean water and pollinators. For guides on specific types of native planting projects, you can also visit our Rain Gardens, Shoreline Stabilization, Turf Alternatives, and Steps to Plant for Pollinators pages.
Who We Are Blue Thumb—Planting for Clean Water® is a network of clean water and native plant stewards creating change to bridge the gap between knowledge and action by offering resources and programs to Minnesotan residents. Our Finest on Earth™ Blue Thumb Partners include local governmental units, non-profit organizations, and private companies all working toward…
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Blue Thumb Update On May 27, 2015, the RCWD Board of Managers approved the Blue Thumb license and transfer agreement. The agreement begins with a two-year license period under which… Read More →
The EPA Identifies RUNOFF as the #1 threat to the health of our lakes, streams, and rivers. Because storm sewers connect streets to waterways, it’s important we take care of… Read More →
