Harrisburg approves conservation project to convert lawn into meadow for water quality improvement

During the Harrisburg City Council Work Session on March 4, 2025, a significant discussion centered around Resolution 13 of 2025, which aims to authorize the city to negotiate a landowner grantee agreement with the Dauphin County Conservation District. This initiative is part of a broader effort to enhance water quality in the region through a riparian buffer project outlined in the countywide action plan.

The resolution focuses on a two-acre property located at 919 Gibson Boulevard, adjacent to the Dauphin County Work Release Center. Eric Naguski, head of the Dauphin County Conservation District, and Josh Clark, the countywide action plan program manager, presented the project, emphasizing its dual goals: improving water quality flowing into Spring Creek and reducing maintenance costs associated with the property.

The proposed project involves converting approximately 1.4 acres of lawn into a meadow, which is expected to foster native plant growth beneficial for local pollinators and water quality. The conversion process will include minimal soil disturbance and will maintain a small turf area for visibility and safety. The county has committed to managing the meadow, which will require annual mowing to prevent the growth of woody plants.

Council members expressed support for the initiative, recognizing its alignment with the county's comprehensive plan. Questions raised during the session included inquiries about the readiness of the project and the potential for community engagement through visual representations of the planned meadow. The council members highlighted the importance of achieving optimal water quality, particularly concerning the flow into Spring Creek.

In conclusion, the discussions during the work session underscored the city council's commitment to environmental sustainability and community health. The anticipated next steps include finalizing the agreement with the Dauphin County Conservation District and moving forward with the meadow conversion project, which promises to enhance local ecosystems while reducing municipal maintenance burdens.