Agenda - Council - 06/14/2022 - Laserfiche WebLink

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C. SEED INSTALLATION Note: this is one of several methods of seeding prairie species. The use of no-till drill is also common. 1. Determining the seeding season will be based on current and predicted weather condi- tions. Seeding shall occur no earlier than May 15, to allow for proper site preparation and no later than June 20, for spring installation. If fall seeding is required, seeding shall occur between September 20 and winter freeze-up. 2. Prairie grass seeding method shall conform to the following guidelines: All prairie grass seed shall be installed onto the prepared seedbed with a Brillion- or Truax-type seeder or by broadcasting. (Ideally, broadcasting will include packing after the grass is set down but before the forbs are set down.) Grass seed shall be uniformly planted at a rate no less than ten pounds PLS per acre. Forb seed shall be uniformly planted at a rate of no less than five pounds PLS per acre (Note: seeding rates may vary considerably depending on site conditions and project goals.) D. COVER CROP If site preparation is done in the spring, use a cover crop of oats, wheat or annual rye grass. For a fall planting use a cover crop of winter wheat. See planting plan for cover crop seeding rates. If cover crop is planted during the growing season, mow it before it goes to seed. E. STRAW APPLICATION 1. Apply weed-free straw or a native-grass mulch over the seeded area. 2. Disc or crimp the mulch into the soil after seeding. E EROSION CONTROL FABRIC 1. To prevent erosion and the washing of seed, install erosion control fabric in areas that receive flowing water from curb cuts, roof drains, swales and slopes that have a slope greater than 3:1. 2. Follow manufacturer's directions for fabric installation. G. PRAIRIE MAINTENANCE CONTRACT A three-year maintenance contract should be included in bid. a. Year One: Mow prairie (use a flail type mower) to a height of 4-6 inches, just above the height of the emerging prairie plants before cool-season weeds go to seed. This could result in two to four mowings in the first season, with an empha- sis on mowing in the first half of the growing season. b. Year Two: Mow prairie in early spring to a height of 6-8 inches; ensure that ruts are not created during mowing. Later in season if weeds persist, mow prairie a second time when vegetative growth reaches a height of 8-12 inches; make sure to stay above the height of emerging natives. Mow before weeds go to seed. c. Year Three and Beyond: Spot spray any aggressive weeds. A prescribed burn may also be recommended in the third year. 58