Though their hillside cottage afforded sweeping views of the Magothy River, its residents were concerned about erosion on the steep waterfront embankment. They enlisted Hyattsville-based Clinton + Ries Landscape Architects to remedy the situation. “With extreme rain events becoming more frequent due to climate change, the slope posed a danger and contributed to significant sheet flow into the river,” recalls landscape architect Kate Ries.

She and project manager Xing Chen proposed planting the backyard with a native meadow, which would not only solve the erosion problem but also boost visual appeal. A small “sunset terrace” mid-slope features a spot for lounging.

Now complete, the program treads lightly on the protected, quarter-acre site, where re-grading and major construction are prohibited by the county. Implemented and maintained by Walnut Hill Landscape Company, the meadow now lures surrounding flora and fauna. “Pollinators are naturally attracted to the new habitat,” says Chen. “What was once a blank expanse of lawn now is a colorful swath of native perennials that can be enjoyed from inside the house and the water as well.”

The project may reap other rewards too. “Many people may not know that you can achieve a wide array of colors and interest through native perennial planting,” Ries reflects. “Educating others is a lesser- recognized benefit of this project.”