What we are doing: In the Metro Detroit Region, erosion on steep slopes adjacent to the interstate is a serious
maintenance, safety and aesthetic issue. Currently, the standard treatment for covering slopes is seeding.
While, seeding can be a solution to some erosion problems, it is presenting many challenges as well.
The goal of this project is to demonstrate an alternative to turf as a solution for slope stabilization.
The $122 million reconstruction of M-10 gives us the opportunity to demonstrate and introduce these alternatives.
On M-10 between the Evergreen Road and Ten Mile Road bridge span, the Michigan Department of Transportation is investing $200,000 in this pilot planting project in an effort to fulfill these main objectives:
Find attractive alternative plants that will flourish in harsh urban conditions and will create interest and beauty for the traveler as well as the adjacent residents and businesses.
Alleviate and reduce the safety and financial concerns associated with mowing steep slopes as well as the environmental damage and increased soil sedimentation and runoff due to bare soils.
Provide alternative treatments to existing slopes that can be used in other situations around the metro area.
Reduce maintenance costs associated with mowing, and redirect costs to address other maintenance requirements.
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