Restoring your Yard after Utility Construction
Background
Last year, Xcel Energy upgraded approximately 25 miles of its natural gas distribution pipeline system in North Dakota and northwestern Minnesota. The pipeline was located under the boulevard, street, or sidewalk in your neighborhood. The project involved upgrading meters and the natural gas service pipe that supplies natural gas to homes and businesses. Due to weather conditions, temporary restoration was performed on the disturbed property areas last fall and we are now doing permanent restoration work. There is no charge for this restoration work.
What do you mean by “permanently restoring” the area?
Once we remove all temporary restoration materials that were installed last year, we will restore the area with high quality material. Lawn and boulevard areas will be restored with approximately three inches of black dirt, Kentucky Bluegrass seed, and starter fertilizer. Disturbed roads, driveway, and sidewalk will be restored with concrete or asphalt.
Why are you applying grass seed?
Kentucky Bluegrass seed is used because grass seed develops a stronger root system and healthier turf as compared to sod. We will provide the initial application of fertilizer to stimulate germination, control weeds, and encourage growth.
What must I do to ensure my seeded lawn takes root?
We will leave a green door hanger with instructions at your home after we complete the restoration. It is important to start and maintain the watering process as soon as possible.
- WATERING: Water will encourage germination and develop a strong root system while a lack of water will result in spotty growth. After the area is seeded and depending on weather conditions, sprinkle the lawn at least five minutes each morning and afternoon for four to six weeks. The soil should be kept moist at a depth of at least one inch deep after each watering. After six weeks, water as needed based on local watering restrictions. Do not let puddles form and do not water at night.
- MOWING: The first mowing is recommended after the lawn reaches at least five inches in height. Frequent mowing will thicken the turf and minimize clippings as they can suffocate the grass and create dead spots.
- WEEDING: While weed seed is not part of the seed mixture, weeds grow in any condition. Weed control is the responsibility of the homeowner and weeds should be dug out by hand for the first three months or until the lawn is established. Weeds may also be controlled by mowing and spraying.
- FERTILIZING: After the first mowing, a nitrogen rich fertilizer with no weed killer may be added. Minimize the use of weed killers to prevent harming the grass.
When can I walk on the lawn?
Avoid walking on a newly seeded lawn as footprints can leave depressions. Foot traffic should be minimized through the first growing season.
