Download the
Source Book
In recent years, a new look in landscaping, commonly known as natural
landscaping, has been gaining enthusiastic acceptance across the country.
Natural landscaping is an aesthetically exciting, ever-changing tapestry
of hardy, primarily native plantings well adapted to the local climate and
soil. It provides a cost effective alternative to conventional turf grass
lawns.
Natural landscaping minimizes the environmentally detrimental effects of
pesticides and fertilizers, as well as the noise pollution and the
emission of air-polluting substances from lawn-maintenance equipment. It
virtually eliminates the need to use water for irrigation as is required
for turf grass lawns. While not maintenance free, natural landscaping
requires less time and money for ongoing maintenance than conventional
landscapes. Homeowners and developers alike are beginning to
appreciate the environmental, economic and aesthetic benefits of natural
landscaping.
Local officials are in a position to advocate natural landscaping and
bring its benefits to their communities. Local governments demonstrate the
benefits by using native plant materials on government owned and managed
lands. Government officials can amend comprehensive plans and adopt
ordinances to promote the appreciation and use of natural landscapes.
Citizen education about the benefits of natural landscaping can provide a
powerful incentive, especially if government officials can point to pilot
projects of their own.
The Source Book:
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Explains the basic principles and benefits of natural landscaping;
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Demonstrates the feasibility of using natural landscaping successfully in
the region;
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Provides information regarding the ways that local officials as community
leaders can encourage the use of natural landscaping;
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Identifies ways to avoid pitfalls that could result in poorly implemented
natural landscaping or cause problems for local government;
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Describes tools and techniques; and
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Provides direction to other sources of information and expertise.
This guidebook was originally prepared by the
Northeastern Illinois Planning Commission
(NIPC) for the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Region 5, and was
updated in 2004 with funding from Chicago Wilderness. The intended
audience is local officials, land owners, and citizens in the greater
northeastern Illinois region.
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