Envirnomental Benefits

As soon as we build roads, sewage systems and foundations the "natural environment" as we understand it is forever altered. The benefits of maintaining vibrant green spaces within urban environments minimize the damage caused by urban life. Things such as harmful emissions from vehicles and air conditioners are lessened by the presence of healthy green spaces. So why does grass play such a major role in urban living? There are a number of reasons.

Grass growth significantly influences soil formation. In a healthy lawn one grass plant is capable of producing 387 miles of fibrous roots, the distance between New York and Montreal. When crowded together in a lawn, the roots are not as extensive, but still form a safety net system which holds soil in place. As roots die off, to be replaced by new ones, the soil is enriched by microorganisms that form humus. Many living organisms live around soil particles and roots.

In one pound of root zone, there are 93 billion organisms of bacteria, fungi, actimonycetes and protozoa. In 100 m² of turf there are 45 quadrillion microorganisms that weigh about 70 pounds. Moisture and organic matter are required for soils to be biologically active. Reproduction of these organisms is very rapid and life span is short. Soil organisms promote soil health through decomposition of plant matter and lawn products. The good health of soil and lawn grasses are thus interdependent.

There are about 35,000,000 (million) individual turfgrass plants per acre or about 8,000,000 (million) plants per 10,000 square feet of lawn. No other type of plant grows so closely. There can be as many as 14,000,000 (million) individual roots within a surface area of 2,500 square feet. The continuing cycle of root growth and decomposition provides food for soil microorganisms that are an important part of the living, dynamic system. Recognizing the extensive eco-system turfgrass provides, one begins to realize that grass is one of the most ideal plants in an urban setting; which explains why it is such an important part of our culture.

Filtering of Environmental Pollutants

Grass plants capture and use greenhouse gasses, thereby counteracting climate change. Turf also traps air-pollution and generates much of the oxygen we breathe. A 50 x 50 foot lawn produces enough oxygen for a family of four to breathe for one year. Turf also acts as a barrier that deters chemicals from entering the soil profile and/or ground water.

Healing

Horticulture is therapeutic and improves quality of life. Millions of Canadians spend countless hours enjoying their yards and tending to their flowers and gardens. Studies illustrate that hospital patients whose rooms overlook landscapes recover faster and require less pain medication than those lying in a sterile urban environment. Yearly cycles of nature produce changes in the color of lawns, which are among the first areas to green up in the spring. This brings a lift to human spirits and links urban inhabitants with a symbol of the countryside and its heritage.

Preventing Erosion

Grasses offer a very efficient and inexpensive erosion control function. Turf intercepts raindrops before they disturb the soil. Turf promotes water percolation rather than runoff. Our streams and drainage infrastructure would be absolutely overwhelmed if not for the water retention capabilities of turf. Our fertile soil would be lost if the turf biomass was not so efficient in slowing water runoff.

Preventing Injury

Sports playing surfaces are made safer when grassed with sure footing and cushioning sod that adds to the quality of play. The added traction and cushioning provided well maintained turf areas dramatically reduce the number of injuries resulting from trips and falls.