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 Mid-America’s Ground Cover Initiative has reduced lawn areas by 120,000 square feet throughout our communities to reduce the need for irrigation and fertilization. Ground covers replace grassy areas to beautify the community while requiring no need for irrigation or fertilization after the establishment period. 55% of plant material on our communities is now drought tolerant.
Irrigation contracts require a monthly test and completion of any needed repairs to limit unnecessary water usage.
“Smart” irrigation systems have been installed on four apartment communities, with the plan to expand this system to more communities in 2009. ET irrigation monitors rainfall and atmospheric conditions, along with soil and plant types. The expected impact is a 30% reduction in water consumption by customizing watering needs to the plants and automated alerts when system troubles occur, thereby avoiding unnecessary watering. |