Sediment and pollution are harmful to the aquatic ecosystem. They are commonly caused by excess and untreated stormwater entering the storm sewer system. Through the use of native plant species, these pollutants can be mitigated through low-maintenance, attractive natural systems. 

Grape Hyacinth

Native plant species help reduce erosion along waterways by stabilizing the banks with their root systems. Sediment entering waterways creates health issues downstream by altering the characteristics of the waterway, introducing pollutants and blocking out sunlight in the water. Native plants help reduce sediment by strengthening soils with their root systems and slowing down fast-flowing waters. Establishing native plants along a waterway or creating a rain garden are both techniques to reduce sediment runoff using native plants.  

Stormwater runoff in urbanized areas, such as the City of Centerville, can carry various pollutants. Water running across lawns, roofs and roads can pick up a myriad of pollutants and transport them into the local waterways. Native Plants are specially suited to filter pollutants from stormwater and ground water. 

Additionally, native plants are low maintenance. Native plants are specifically suited to thrive in this environment and do not require special care. Once established, they need minimal water and fertilizer. If you are looking for a specific type of plant, there are many native options that are alternatives to common non-native plants. Additionally, native plants are more attractive to pollinators and provide shelter to predatory insects that prey on common pests.

Removing invasive species along waterways can be just as important as establishing native plants. The most prolific invasive species in Centerville is Amur Honeysuckle. Amur Honeysuckle spreads very quickly and grows very fast, smothering out native plants in the process. Unlike native plants, it has a shallow root system that is ineffective at controlling erosion or filtering pollutants. If left unchecked, Amur Honeysuckle can kill entire areas of native plants and prevent new native plants from growing, resulting in sediment and pollution problems.

What can you do to help? Plant native plants! How to plant them, where to plant them, and what to plant are important information, so the following resources are provided to help guide your decision making. You can also contact David Swanson (dswanson@centervilleohio.gov) at Public Works for additional help.

Ohio Department of Natural Resources
Ohio Native Plant Month
Invasive Plan Information and Native Substitutes
The Ohio State University Extension - Rain Garden Manual