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News Article: Issues and Plans for the Irrigation System at Mainz's "Greenbank"
The "Greenbank" on Mainz's North mole, inaugurated in mid-June, has been the talk of the town, offering a "green oasis" for Mainz's Neustadt. However, recent observations have raised concerns about the irrigation system, with no sprinklers or other irrigation systems visible on the newly inaugurated area.
Currently, the roll-out lawn is being watered manually with a watering can, twice a week. This method, while temporary, is not sustainable for the long-term maintenance of the lawn, especially considering its high water requirement during growth.
Wilhelm Hartmann, a horticulturist, has diagnosed the lawn as a "total loss" and stated that it must be renewed. In the meantime, the irrigation system does not seem to be functioning optimally, with water intake points planned for future use.
The Nature and Biodiversity Conservation Union (NABU) has long criticised roll-out turf, describing it as a "biodiversity desert." Instead, they suggest planting flower meadows as a more environmentally friendly alternative, requiring little to no irrigation and being beneficial for soil, insects, and biodiversity.
If the "Greenbank" is to be a sustainable and eco-friendly space, improvements in the irrigation system are necessary. Here are some potential solutions for future water intake points:
- Sustainable Water Use: Future plans might focus on implementing sustainable water practices, such as using rainwater collection systems or greywater reuse.
- Efficiency Improvements: Installing smart irrigation systems that use sensors and AI to optimize water usage based on weather conditions and soil moisture levels.
- Renewable Energy Integration: Incorporating solar or wind power to reduce dependence on grid electricity and lower operational costs.
- Water Conservation Measures: Implementing drip irrigation and mulching to reduce water loss through evaporation and runoff.
- Community Engagement: Educating users about the importance of water conservation and involving the community in maintenance and planning.
For specific details about the "Greenbank" irrigation system, we recommend contacting local authorities or the management of the Zollhafen area directly. They would have the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding any issues or future plans.
It's important to note that the design of the new North mole in its first section cost around 8.3 million euros. The cost of high-quality roll-out turf, including installation, ranges from 10 to 20 euros per square meter.
As the "Greenbank" continues to be a significant part of Mainz's Neustadt, it's crucial to address the current issues with the irrigation system and work towards a more eco-friendly solution. Only then can the "Greenbank" truly serve as a "cooling option for hot days and summer nights," and a step towards a "more lively and livable Neustadt."
- To make the "Greenbank" more sustainable and eco-friendly, it would be beneficial to implement home-and-garden practices such as drip irrigation and mulching to conserve water.
- Considering the long-term maintenance of the "Greenbank," switch from roll-out turf to home-and-garden alternatives like flower meadows, which require less irrigation and are beneficial for insects and biodiversity.
