Just in time for spring, new guidance is available from the Minnesota Local Research Board on the best irrigation methods to establish fresh turfgrass. Researchers tested five irrigation methods for watering new installations of salt-tolerant turfgrass. They developed an instructional course for contractors and guidance for homeowners to promote successful turfgrass installation.
Continue reading Improving Roadside Turfgrass EstablishmentCategory Archives: Environment
Redesigned iron-enhanced ditch checks could help filter pollutants from stormwater runoff
This article was originally published in Catalyst, April 2020.
The Minnesota Department of Transportation (MnDOT) is exploring innovative ways to filter pollutants from stormwater runoff and meet permit requirements for construction projects. In a recent study, U of M researchers documented the performance of an iron-enhanced ditch check filter to remove phosphates from stormwater. They found that the filter was effective, though its performance decreased over time.
Continue reading Redesigned iron-enhanced ditch checks could help filter pollutants from stormwater runoff
Regional effort tests turfgrass performance in cold climate states
This article was originally published in Catalyst, April 2020.
Vibrant green grass along roadways is a common sight across urban and rural landscapes in Minnesota and many other states, but its survival is a significant challenge—especially in cold climates. Roadway salt and other stressors can cause turfgrass installations to fail, requiring expensive reseeding or sodding efforts.
Continue reading Regional effort tests turfgrass performance in cold climate states
Earth Day 2020
April 22 is Earth Day!
Climate change & the environment is one of five research strategic priorities that guide the work of the state transportation research program.
This includes research projects specific to endangered & threatened species, wetland protections, salt use and incursion, congestion impacts on air quality, and the impacts of road construction and maintenance activity on the environment.
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Innovative Research to Improve Bumble Bee Habitat
Entomologists have developed an innovative method for surveying bumble bees alongside Minnesota roadways, the results of a new research study funded by the Minnesota Department of Transportation.
Research shows that MnDOT roadsides offer rich bumble bee habitats. The study offers information on surveying bee habitats and recommendations for improving habitats.
Continue reading Innovative Research to Improve Bumble Bee Habitat
Collaboration with Minnesota Zoo aims to conserve wildlife
Turtles and other wildlife are at risk along Minnesota roadways.
MnDOT is collaborating with the Minnesota Zoo on a new research project installing small animal exclusion fencing. The fencing is intended to redirect turtles (and other small animals) to culverts and bridges where they can cross the road safely.
Continue reading Collaboration with Minnesota Zoo aims to conserve wildlife
Investigating Wastewater Reuse at Rest Areas and Truck Stations
Researchers have provided MnDOT with a comprehensive and practical evaluation of what the agency would need to do to develop wastewater reuse systems for its truck stations and rest areas. Two sites will install the research project’s recommended systems soon.
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Using Regional Materials to Manage Stormwater Runoff
Researchers determined that natural soil amended with locally sourced materials performed well in bioslopes and bioswales. This practice will allow MnDOT to avoid hauling in costly commercial materials for stormwater management installations.
Continue reading Using Regional Materials to Manage Stormwater Runoff
Evaluating Iron-Enhanced Swale Ditch Checks for Phosphorus Removal
Researchers documented performance of an iron-enhanced ditch check filter to remove phosphorus from stormwater over three years. The filter was effective, but its performance decreased over time, and it will require relatively frequent maintenance. Several design changes may be considered.
Continue reading Evaluating Iron-Enhanced Swale Ditch Checks for Phosphorus Removal
New Project: Use of Innovative Technology to temporarily Deter Bat-Bridge Use Prior to and During Construction
MnDOT has funded a study to evaluate the use of non-lethal ultrasonic acoustic devices to temporarily deter bats from bridges before and during construction projects.
Continue reading New Project: Use of Innovative Technology to temporarily Deter Bat-Bridge Use Prior to and During Construction