Out of the blue, a new project landed in my lap and entails a long-time passion of mine – phytoremediation, utilizing plants to help clear the land and soil of toxins like petrochemicals and heavy metals. The project location is in Kinderhook, NY and involves removing an asphalt parking lot and planting the site with predominantly native grass species like Indian grass (Sorghastum nutans), switchgrass (Panicum virgatum), prairie cordgrass (Spartina pectinata) and others. Deep roots phytostabilize the contaminants within the soil preventing leaching into groundwater or runoff in heavy rain events which is excellent news for the water table and ecosystem and the meadow garden will provide habitat for birds, insects and small mammals as well as beauty for the homeowners to enjoy. Wins all around.
