By Linda Chuss

More and more, trees and plants are replaced by roads, parking lots, and buildings. This harms water quality and reduces drinkable water – here’s why. When it rains on asphalt and cement, the water flows across it and into drains, then into streams, ponds, and beyond. The rainwater carries with it things like litter, oil from cars, chemical fertilizers, leaves and branches. That debris decomposes in the waterways and lakes. There, it causes unwanted algae to bloom, kills fish and other wildlife, and pollutes the water, making it undrinkable.

As one way to address this problem in Mendon, the Town Hall campus has been redesigned to replace the hard surfaces with plantings and better drainage. Started in 2020, the project will finish by early summer. Chair of the town’s Land/Energy Use Committee Anne Mazar, who has been involved from the start, described the results.

“What was a sea of problematic asphalt is now an attractive and functional collection of plantings, with improved drainage incorporated, and the parking spots maintained. Now, instead of running off into the storm pipes and water sources, the rain is absorbed in the ground. The ground acts as a natural filter, helping to remove most of the harmful pollutants so they won’t get into our water supplies. New drainage pipes, positioned to mimic nature’s systems, also help collect and redirect the flow.”

There are additional benefits of the new design, Mazar explained. “The plants make the campus more inviting for people walking in the area or sitting down to talk. Plants also keep it cooler – dark asphalt collects heat, but plants lower the temperature. They also absorb carbon dioxide, helping with global warming. This type of design will be better for flood protection, too.”

Mazar praised the collaborative effort which includes the Massachusetts Vulnerability Preparedness program, Town Administrator Kim Newman, Fire Chief Kessler and Police Chief Kurczy, Historical Commission member Kathy Schofield, Parks and Recreation Director Dan Byer, the Select Board, the Planning Board, Horsely Wittin environmental engineers, and UEL Contractors.

“We invite people to see the site for themselves and learn from the signs there. Residents and businesses can follow similar practices. Instead of asphalt and concrete, try permeable pavers or gravel. Use native plants and avoid toxic fertilizers and pesticides,” said Mazar. 

More information about the project can be found at mendontownhallcampusgreenguide.com.