Sustainable Highways: The Role of Biotic Earth? in Revitalizing Saskatchewan’s Ecosystems

In the sweeping prairies of Saskatchewan, where the landscape meets the sky, a transformative project is taking shape. It’s not just about roads - it’s about merging infrastructure with sustainability. Led by the Saskatchewan Ministry of Highways and Infrastructure, this project seeks to introduce native plant species along Saskatchewan’s highways, setting the stage for healthier ecosystems. This is the story of how Biotic Earth? played a crucial role in making that vision a reality.

Project Overview?

In June 2020, the Native Seed Mix Trials began in the Eastbrook subdivision of southeast Regina. The project aimed to test two different topsoil mixes to find the most suitable medium for native seeds—seeds that would be able to establish quickly and survive Saskatchewan’s harsh winters. The trials represent a crucial step toward promoting biodiversity while stabilizing the ground along future highway construction sites.

?

Job Name: Native Seed Mix Trials for Saskatchewan Transportation?

Client: Saskatchewan Transportation?

Contractor: Wilco Contractors Northwest Inc.

Installation Date: June 2020?

Location: Eastbrook, Regina, Saskatchewan?

Challenges?

The prairie climate is unforgiving, with cold winters, nutrient-deficient soils, and extreme weather patterns. The soil in the test plots had low nitrogen, medium phosphorus, and very high potassium levels—conditions that made it difficult for plants to take root. The main challenge was finding a seed mix capable of surviving these conditions and establishing a healthy plant community that would thrive year-round.

?

Another challenge involved preventing erosion. Without adequate vegetation, the risk of soil erosion was high, potentially jeopardizing the success of future highway projects. To address this, the project needed a soil amendment that would not only enrich the ground but also help prevent soil loss.?

Solutions?

The Native Seed Mix Trials followed a methodical approach to ensure the best chance of success. Two different topsoil mixes were tested, each containing a mix of native seeds adapted to the prairie environment. To enhance the soil and promote plant growth, Wilco Contractors Southwest Inc. applied Biotic Earth?, a biotic soil amendment designed to support sustainable vegetation establishment in challenging conditions.

?

Soil Prep Methods: Testing of two topsoil mixes?

Seed Type: Native species adapted to Saskatchewan’s climate?

Fertilizer Type: Biotic Earth? at 3.933 kg/ha?

Application Method: Hydroseeding with erosion control?

?Biotic Earth enriched the soil by introducing organic materials and beneficial microbes, transforming the soil structure and improving nutrient availability. Its blend of organic matter and microbes helped the soil retain moisture, balanced the pH, and prevented topsoil loss through its erosion control properties.?

The Biotic Earth? Difference?

In just a few months, Biotic Earth? made an incredible difference. By August 2020, plant counts and surveys revealed remarkable success. The team found that four out of twelve quadrats had over 65 seedlings per square meter, far surpassing initial projections.

A total of 19 plant species were recorded in the trials, including 9 native species such as Awned Wheatgrass, Big Bluestem, and Green Needlegrass. These native plants thrived, even on medium slopes and without supplemental watering, proving their resilience in the prairie environment. Biotic Earth?’s soil-enhancing properties were critical to overcoming the nutrient deficiencies and ensuring the establishment of a robust plant community.

A Green Future for Saskatchewan's Highways?

By the end of the trials, the Native Seed Mix Trials had demonstrated significant success in promoting sustainable vegetation along Saskatchewan’s highways. While some areas required reseeding, the project’s overall achievements exceeded expectations. The incorporation of Biotic Earth? enabled rapid, dense plant growth that stabilized the soil and supported biodiversity.

?

The Native Seed Mix Trials are a testament to the power of biotic soil amendments in creating sustainable infrastructure. Saskatchewan’s highways are evolving from ordinary roads into vibrant ecosystems, providing critical habitats for native plants and animals. As the province continues to expand its highway network, projects like these are paving the way for a greener, more sustainable future.

Are you interested in learning more about Verdyol Biotic Earth? Black? We've made it easy for you to incorporate Biotic Earth? into your construction documentation.

You can download our Spec Sheet from our website and easily copy and paste the specs you need. This content is free to use!

Need assistance? Reach out to us in any of the ways below:

Email us: [email protected]

Call us: 1-866-280-7327

Learn more on our website: ecb.ca