This paper discusses the geologic and environmental aspects of the Anoka Sandplain, a large sandy glacial outwash plain covering approximately 2200 square kilometers to the north of the Twin Cities Area in Minnesota.
Abstract This paper explains the land use and management strategies of the Anoka Sandplain, which can be used for light industry such as sand and gravel mining, community districts such as business and residential areas and farming of alfalfa. The author believes that, when managing sandplains, we should take a cue from Mother Nature, which requires no outside inputs. The author feels that the best management is xeriscaping, which is landscaping that involves using plants that have minimal water requirements once established and require very little maintenance in general.
From the Paper "Land management through erosion control is also important on the Residential and Commercial level. Practices in these areas include, the use of barriers preventing surface erosion from building sites to enter the natural environment. Also by using erosion blankets on loose soil, planting native grasses to hold soil, and by using retaining walls to hold critical slopes."