HENRY FORD

The Henry Ford College Xeriscaping FIM master plan was developed to assist the College in reaching its sustainability objectives across various performance areas. This service scope pertains to the xeriscaping FIM, which aims to decrease landscape-related water consumption to 40% of the current level by using drought-tolerant plants, landscape planning techniques, and other water-saving methods.

Xeriscaping involves designing and implementing landscapes that require minimal or no additional irrigation. In Michigan, as well as many other regions, this involves landscaping with plants that are historically native to the area and suited to the habitat where they are planted. Native plants have evolved over thousands of years in a specific geographic location and are adapted to the typical water levels that the habitat and ecosystem receive annually. Consequently, by planning and installing native landscapes, the need for additional irrigation can be reduced or eliminated once the plants mature. This approach is not only sustainable but also creates habitats, enhances the campus's natural beauty, and connects visitors with nature.

A strategic approach transformed 11 acres of unused turf grass into a sustainable prairie ecosystem by installing a diverse mix of native seed and plugs. The process began with assessing the existing turf grass, soil quality, and environmental conditions to select suitable species for a successful transition. The area was prepared by removing turf grass and the seed mix, consisting of native grasses and wildflowers, and strategically placed plugs aimed to attract pollinators, improve soil health, and provide wildlife habitat. This transformation enhances biodiversity, improves environmental health, and contributes to carbon sequestration, soil erosion control, and water retention, fostering a resilient landscape.