Starting late this spring, the City of Clearwater will begin work on a Native Plantings Initiative that was approved in 2021. This initiative aims to replace lawn turf in two stormwater drainage ponds along Huber Avenue with native prairie plantings. The city was selected to receive funding assistance through a grant offered by Wright County. The city has contracted Minnesota Native Landscapes, Inc., to complete the preparation, seeding, and mulch of the designated areas.

This project will bring several benefits, including:

• Improve water filtration, soil moisture retention and infiltration.
• Helps prevent soil erosion through the plant's deep root structures.
• Native plants are drought-tolerant.
• Cost efficient by reducing maintenance costs, including fuel use and staff time.
• Provides habitat for wildlife and pollinators.
• Enhance the aesthetics of the neighboring community.

City staff will be working closely with Minnesota Native Landscapes, Inc., to plan and execute this project with the utmost consideration for the surrounding environment and community. This is a long-term project that will be done in phases over several years, until the plantings reach maturity. Phase 1 will begin in the coming weeks with the first herbicide application to prepare the sites. The herbicide used is Glyphosate, which is found in common products like Accord®, Rodeo®, and Roundup®. It is commonly used for forestry uses, planting site preparation, rights-of-way and facilities maintenance, and noxious weed control. It works by blocking an enzyme essential for plant growth. It will be applied by Minnesota Native Landscapes, Inc. through aerial spraying by drones. Treated areas will be marked. Avoid the treated areas for at least 24 hours.

We understand that changes to the local landscape may raise question or concerns. A fact sheet for the project is linked below as well as more information about the selected herbicide. Please contact City Hall at 320-558-2428 or e-mail Stephanie Trottier at strottier@clearwatercity.com if you have any questions or concerns.