Solar Array – Fort Detrick, MD

Study Site

Solar Array – Fort Detrick, MD

Study Goals

To decrease turfgrass maintenance costs, deter wildlife and invasive vegetation.

Study Summary

Prior to array construction, Flightturf^® was installed on an 80 acre solar field in Maryland for Ameresco Solar. Originally installed in 2014 the lower right is a picture from 2018. A bit of weed pressure on the perimeter that needs attention but overall doing really well. FlightTurf^® does need annual attention ideally after the seed heads fully develop. One mowing each year is prudent along with weed abatement and overseeding to keep a very dense stand.

“…the patented grass…cultivated under a solar array…will deter both wildlife and invasive vegetation while growing at an ultra-slow pace…the fact is that it may save millions of dollars…”

Marc Mezzanotte PE, VP, Dewberry Professional Services, Ft. Detrick, MD, 67 acre solar array