Project Abstract

Abstract
The establishment of a departmental lawn is a crucial project aimed at enhancing the aesthetics and functionality of the departmental premises. This research project focuses on the planning, implementation, and maintenance of a green space within the department, considering factors such as location, design, landscaping, and sustainability. The primary objectives of this project include creating a visually appealing space that can serve as a relaxation area for staff and students, promoting environmental sustainability through the incorporation of native plants and efficient irrigation systems, and fostering a sense of community and pride within the department. Key considerations in the planning phase involve assessing the available space, conducting soil analysis, and determining the most suitable plants and grass species for the local climate and soil conditions. The design of the lawn will take into account factors such as accessibility, seating areas, pathways, and potential uses for academic and social events. Implementation of the project will involve the preparation of the site, installation of irrigation systems, planting of grass and plants, and hardscaping elements such as walkways and seating areas. Careful attention will be paid to the selection of drought-resistant plants and the use of eco-friendly landscaping practices to minimize water usage and environmental impact. Maintenance of the departmental lawn will be critical to ensuring its long-term success. This will include regular mowing, watering, fertilization, pest control, and periodic landscaping to keep the space looking vibrant and healthy. Involving staff and students in the upkeep of the lawn can help foster a sense of ownership and responsibility for the space. Overall, the establishment of a departmental lawn is a multifaceted project that requires careful planning, execution, and ongoing maintenance. By creating a green space within the department, we aim to enhance the physical environment, promote sustainability practices, and strengthen the sense of community among staff and students. This research project will provide valuable insights and practical recommendations for departments looking to undertake similar initiatives in their own settings.

Project Overview

1.0           INTRODUCTION

1.1           BACKGROUND OF THE STUDY

Green lawn, according to Barre (1950) is the maintenance of a perennial green vegetation cover for a premises. It is a form of competing the landscape of an area. The well established aforestation and maintenance of departmental lawn and the growing of some flowers would constitute a good land scope.

The lawn establishment and maintenance, according to Tyson (1964) is a form of landscape architecture which in turn, include site planning, the grasses normally used are drought resistant types which according to Alexander and Fuimer (1964) are conventionally referred to as turf. The same authors pointed out that turfs have been developed by modern man in order to enhance his environment. They also concluded the more widely turfs are used by any civilization, the more technologically advanced the civilization.

The quality of a new lawn is directly related to the success of established. Turf establishment begins with careful planning, knowledge of soil conditions, and an understanding of the environmental and cultural requirements of turf grasses. This publication provides a stepwise approach to turf establishment and renovation and includes information on preparing the site for establishment, seeding, sodding, renovation and care at newly established turf.    

1.2           STATEMENT OF THE PROBLEM

The following problems are militating against the effective establishment of a green lawn in the Agricultural Engineering Department.

i.                 The poor condition of the soil of the project area. These poor condition is further worsened by termite infestation which is in turn enhanced by the poor watering condition.

ii.               The littering of the lawn site by the fallen leaves of surround trees, piece of paper, chaft and residues of various food items usually dropped indiscriminately around the department.

iii.             He inadequate of irrigation system used to water the lawn during dry periods

iv.             Lack of fence on the site to prevent animals and human indiscriminately trespasses

The above mentioned either has been noticed to harbor the termites and lack of adequate watering of the lawn.  

1.3           AIM

The aim of the project t is to landscape the frontage of the department.

1.4           THE OBJECTIVES

i.                 Fencing the site to prevent animals and human trespasses carryout soil treatment against termite infestation.

ii.               Tilling and pulverizing of the soil clods to make it more favourable for shrubs and plants growth

iii.             Incorporate organic and in-organic fertilizers to replenishes or revamp loss soil nutrients.

iv.             Leveling of the soil to achieve uniform terrain and planting of the shrubs, grasses and flowers to establish green lawn.  

1.5           SCOPE OF THE STUDY

Landscaping is an integral part of urbanization wherever green lawn is established and maintained effectively, it’s benefits to man and the environment cannot be over emphasized. Because of this, this project is intended to transform the façade of the department of agricultural engineering thereby beautifying the department. And it give it a befitting landscape, it serves as case study for the establishment of green lawn in Kaduna polytechnic premises.

The landscaping requires tilling and pulverizing of the soil clods, incorporating organic and inorganic manure to enrich the soil with nutrients, leveling of the soil to achieve uniform terrain and planting of the shrubs, grasses flowers to establish green lawn.

1.6           SIGNIFICANCE OF THE STUDY

Green lawn environment is of tremendous importance as it transform the environment by beautifying the environment, it can also be used for recreational activities (sports) and therapeutic purpose as it enhances both the physical and mental being of the individual.