Green Projects
Naturalizing Property
Kingsville is naturalizing a piece of property off of Conservation Boulevard, next to the storm management pond. Naturalization is the process of transforming a cultivated landscape into a more natural landscape. It provides various benefits to people, the community and the environment.
Benefits of Naturalization
- Attracts wildlife
- Eliminates chemical lawn treatments
- Reduces lawn maintenance
- Nurtures native plant species
Naturalization takes research, planning, site preparation, and hard work. However, over time, naturalized properties require less maintenance than cultivated properties.
Eliminating Invasive Species
Avoiding the planting of invasive species is crucial to preserving biodiversity and ecosystem health. Here are several strategies to prevent the introduction and spread of invasive plants
- Choose Native Plants: Opt for native species in your landscaping projects. Native plants are well-adapted to the local environment and support local wildlife.
- Check Plant Lists: Before purchasing plants, consult invasive species lists provided by local authorities or conservation organizations. Avoid buying plants known to be invasive.
- Buy Certified Plants: Purchase plants from reputable nurseries that guarantee their stock is free from invasive species. Look for certifications or labels indicating the plants are non-invasive.
- Be Cautious with Exotics: Exercise caution when considering exotic plants for your garden. While not all exotic species are invasive, some may escape cultivation and become problematic.
- Proper Disposal: Dispose of plant materials, including seeds and cuttings, properly. Avoid dumping them in natural areas where they could spread and establish new populations.
- Monitor Your Garden: Regularly inspect your garden for signs of invasive species. Early detection can prevent their establishment and spread.
Planting More Trees
Kingsville Town Council increased the tree planting budget for 2022 to allow additional tree planting at Kingsville's Linden Beach Dog Park and proposed Repko Dog Park. The tree-planting program will commence in the Fall.
Cold-in-Place Recycling
During our pavement resurfacing project on Road 3 East, we used a Cold-in-Place Recycling technique. This asphalt recycling operation reuses existing pavement as source material, reducing the amount of aggregate and asphalt transported to the job site. It reduces energy consumption and carbon dioxide emissions by over 20% (compared to traditional Mill and Pave projects) and is also less expensive.