In response to the ongoing drought, the District Council of Loxton Waikerie has installed synthetic grass in all median strips across the Waikerie township.
Located in South Australia’s Riverland and Murray Mallee region, Council’s water supplies are currently at two per cent, meaning the option of irrigating median strips, parks, gardens and so forth is a luxury that can no longer be afforded.
Works Manager for Waikerie, Rick Noble, said Council had tried a number of solutions in the lead up to choosing synthetic turf, including a variety of sprinklers and water saving fertilisers, as well as sub surface irrigation.
“All of these measures were unsuccessful and, as the median strips continued to dry out and die, the township looked more and more untidy,” he said.
“We began installing synthetic grass in a small section of the Waikerie township at the beginning of the 2008–2009 financial year.
“With excellent results and nothing but positive feedback from the community, we have now replaced all the grass in all the Waikerie median strips.”
Rick Noble said although there is a substantial initial outlay in purchasing synthetic grass, it has greater financial and environmental sustainability down the track, as it requires zero watering or maintenance.
“Not only do we now have grass that looks green year round, but our works crew haven’t had to touch it since it was installed around 12 months ago,” he said. “In addition, in the event that we did have a storm or high winds, we can go over the median strips with a mower or blower to clear up loose leaves and debris.”
Council is now looking to further extend installation in the Loxton township, and is also investigating the possible use of synthetic turf in its parks, gardens and ovals.
For further information contact Rick Noble on 0419 032 691.
