Belmont Pollinator Gardens

Village of Downers Grove

OBJECTIVE

Hampton, Lenzini and Renwick, Inc. (HLR) developed and has been implementing a conversion and maintenance plan for the Belmont Pollinator Gardens in two basins located within the Village of Downers Grove.

PROJECT DESCRIPTION

The most effective treatment, based on ecological and economic factors, was implemented. The plan included herbicide treatment of the turf grass, overseeing with a custom native pollinator mix, and removal of invasive species by using a mix of mechanical and chemical techniques. The species focused on through most of the sites were thistle, ragweed, mulberry, ground cherry, lettuce, and cottonwood. Benefits of the Belmont Pollinator Gardens project have included improvements in native plant growth, wildlife habitat, water quality and water flow, and aesthetics.

The following management activities are being utilized:

• Chemical removal of invasive species via herbiciding by an Illinois licensed pesticide applicator
• Mechanical removal of invasive species via machine and hand pulling
• Seeding with a custom native seed mix