Roadside Beautification Opportunities

Mark MastellerChief Landscape Architect

Iowa Department of Transportation

• Interstate Rest Area Improvements

• Integrated Roadside Vegetation Management

• Landscaping• Erosion Control• Grant Programs

Roadside Development

Roadsides are often referred to as “Iowa’s front lawn”

They provide the first impression for motorists

entering the state

Seeding – Native Grasses and Wildflowers

Seeding – Native Grasses and Wildflowers

Seeding – Native Grasses and Wildflowers

Landscaping – forestation style

Landscaping – informal style

Landscaping – screening views

Landscaping – snow control

Competing Uses of the ROW

• Gain access to adjacent property.• Store snow/drifting snow.• Accommodate drainage.• Place regulatory signs.• Place motorist informational signs.• Accommodate utilities.• Allow errant vehicles to regain control without

hitting a fixed object.• Visibility of adjacent businesses/signs.• Sight distance.

Landscaping – also the front lawn to your community

Landscaping - permits

Iowa DOT’s Living Roadways Partnership

• ISU Landscape Architecture• Trees Forever• FHWA

Iowa’s Living Roadways Partnership

DOT Funding Opportunities

DOT Funding Guidewww.iowadot.gov - index

• Living Roadway Trust Fundwww.iowadot.gov/lrtf/

• DOT/DNR Fund

Mark MastellerChief Landscape ArchitectIowa DOT515-239-1424Mark.Masteller@dot.iowa.gov

Questions?