By JONATHAN ZWEYGARDT
Hays Post

Despite recent rains, western Kansas still suffers from the effects of the extended drought — and many are looking for ways to save water and keep their lawn attractive. For some, artificial turf is the answer.

Trey Moeder, owner of ForeverLawn Western Kansas, said the interest in turf is on the rise in the area as more people move away from the typical seeded grass lawn.

The No. 1 benefit of turf, according to Moeder is water conservation. But, he added, with turf you will never have to fertilize or use weed preventer or herbicide on your lawn, making it “very low maintenance.”

There are a number of different kinds of turf products to choose from, and Moeder said the higher quality products are going to have relatively the same look and feel of a seeded lawn.

Companies offer different brands of turf that are constructed differently to fit consumer needs. Right now, according to Moeder, landscape grass is the most popular product being installed in western Kansas.

While interest in turf lawns is on the rise, one of the major barriers facing the turf industry right now is the price.

The average price, according to Moeder, runs between $6 and $12 per square foot, including all installation, labor and materials. The price varies with the quality of the product.

The turf is expected to last between seven to 10 years with very little maintenance, Moeder said. Depending on the amount of traffic, it can last even longer.

Moeder added that while the upfront price of turf might be a little bit of a shock, when you figure the amount of money you can save on water, the cost of mowing and fertilizing and general upkeep, that all adds up over time.