The unintentional mowing of a man’s plants that are placed in the County’s right-of-way sparked a discussion during the Marshall County Commissioners’ meeting Monday evening.
Commissioner Mike Delp began by recognizing that the plants were mowed accidentally and explained that the mowing crews did not realize they were placed there intentionally.
Marc Eads, a resident of Pretty Lake Trail in Plymouth, went on to discuss the strategic placement of the plants. He said they are a part of what is called a “bioswale” which assists with drainage.
Eads told the commissioners, “My bioswale is comprised of some fairly rare native plants, they’re there for a reason because of their ability to drive roots down through limiting layers, along with percolation of water. Most of the water is coming off of the county road there, I just chose to deal with it myself.”
Eads mentioned that he first built the bioswale back when he moved into his house in 2013. He added that the plants initially had to be grown pretty large in order to establish sufficient root systems. However, he said that this spring he began trimming the plants back.
Commissioner Delp mentioned that a few different residents approached him with safety concerns about the height of the plants. He was told there were some concerns about motorists being able to see around the curb and runners and walkers being able to see oncoming vehicles when traveling through the area.
Eads called on some fellow residents of Pretty Lake Trail to speak about the beneficial properties of the bioswale. One individual said he believes the bioswale keeps people from using the ditch as a dumping ground.
Another resident mentioned that she believes the plants actually increase safety since it causes people to slow down and be more cautious when they’re utilizing that area.
Commissioner Kurt Garner spoke to that, saying there have been studies that show that trees lined streets can help slow traffic down. Commissioner Delp noted that there is a difference between a line of trees and the plants in this case.
Delp said if the plants were kept at a height that posed no threat, then there would be no problem. He mentioned that he took a trip over to the property prior to the meeting and noticed the plants were at about 3 feet tall and he was able to see without an issue.
He said if Eads wants to keep the plants about that tall, then it would be alright. Commissioner Kevin Overmeyer agreed that about 3 feet seemed reasonable.
Eads stated that while it may be difficult to maintain that height with a few of the plant species, he would do his best to keep the plants about that tall. No official actions had to be taken on the matter. However, Commissioner Delp said he will check the plants from time to time to ensure they remain at a safe height and said Eads will be alerted if there are any noticeable obstructions.
