Public Works to partner with volunteers to mow grass; remove invasive shrubs   
  
More than an acre of native, Illinois prairie grass gracing the banks of the Illinois River near Constitution Garden will get a makeover in the coming days. Starting Thursday, December 17, Public Works crews will mow through the grass as a maintenance effort to bring the site under growth and species control. 
 
Then this weekend, volunteers with Peoria Wilds will work to remove invasive shrubs from the prairie grass ecosystem. The maintenance and clearing of invasive growth will help prepare the plants for spring growth and rejuvenation.

Returning to Nature’s Way  
This is just one of many water-efficient landscaping sites located throughout the City. Since 2014, Peoria has been pursuing green solutions that prevent stormwater from entering our combined sewer system. Green infrastructure and native grasses promote the natural movement of water, and complements Peoria’s unique natural topography and soil composition. Green works because it saves money, beautifies public spaces, decreases pollution and improves air quality.  
 
Lend a Hand  
Volunteers who wish to assist with this work may appear at Constitution Garden in Peoria Riverfront Park at 9 a.m. Saturday, December 19. Tools and work gloves will be provided. Contact coordinator, Mike Rucker at mikruc@aol.com for more information.
 

Discover more about Peoria’s green infrastructure, rain gardens and more at peoriastormwater.com.