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River Friendly Landscaping solutions include terracing and planting ground cover on steep lots to help control erosion. Courtesy photo |
CommentsRiver Friendly Landscaping Program Launches
Watershed Council, Sierra Nevada Alliance Battle Sediment
Published: July 19, 2010
In an area that features some of Mother Nature’s finest work, Truckee home-ownership has both its joys and unique responsibilities. Many of our town’s residents have the pleasure of living close to Donner Lake, the Truckee River, and surrounding creeks and tributaries. However, many of these properties may actually have a negative impact on the region’s water quality. The Truckee River Watershed Council and the Sierra Nevada Alliance have kicked off a River Friendly Landscaping campaign to help remedy the situation.
“Basically, the Watershed Council is asking homeowners to voluntarily install erosion controls on their properties,” explains Andy Otto, director of Land Use Compatibility Programs. “When implemented correctly, these landscaping methods will help reduce soil erosion, prevent storm water runoff, and stop pollutants from eventually making their way to the Truckee River. If they get to the water, the pollutants cause harm to the watershed and to the fish and animals that feed there.”
The Watershed Council and Sierra Nevada Alliance have identified four areas close to sensitive lakes and streams where they hope homeowners will embrace the RFL program: the north shore of Donner Lake, Tahoe Donner, the Truckee River corridor in Placer County, and along East and West River streets. Properties of special interest are homes on steep slopes, sites with highly compacted soil, and homes that are close to surface water. While any homeowner in any neighborhood can participate in the program, homes in the focus areas will be given priority. Evaluations will be given on a first come, first serve basis. Based upon the assessment, an engineering consultant will design a plan with recommendations (free of charge) for the property based on erosion control issues. When the project is completed, RFL staffers will once again visit the property. Upon certification of completion, the homeowner will be eligible for up to a $400 rebate.
In addition to reducing sediment and pollution in the Truckee River, a native plant/low maintenance landscaping makeover may increase property value and aesthetics. In addition to the joy of helping to protect the water quality of the Truckee River — a stunning local asset — homeowners are eligible for other incentives. Each month, two lucky homeowners who voluntarily comply with the BMP directives will receive two Reno Aces tickets. Homeowners who call in and have an RFL conservation expert come out to their home to provide a free site evaluation and plan will also receive a complimentary “Sierra Nevada Yard & Garden” book along with another interesting booklet outlining invasive plant species.
This cooperative effort between the Truckee River Watershed Council and the Sierra Nevada Alliance is funded by the State of California’s Water Resources Control Board. Info: (530) 550-8760, truckeeriverwc.org
~ Press Release
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