Prior to the installation of HydroTurf® at the Ford Street Canal in Ft. Myers, FL, this canal was vulnerable to slope failure due to erosion and scour. In addition to the risk of severe erosion, other impacts included exposure of utilities and erosion to adjacent roadways and private properties. With sandy soils and steep slopes, mowing was extremely difficult and often neglected, causing an overgrowth of vegetation.

HydroTurf® was installed as a cost-effective solution along the Ford Street canal in 2019. In addition to solving the erosion issues, the turf minimized the need for mowing and regular maintenance. HydroTurf® also provided protection to adjacent utilities, private property, and infrastructure from damage and disruption. HydroTurf® blends into the surrounding vegetation, providing an aesthetically pleasing and natural looking finished product.

Since installation, the canal has proved effective and highly weather resistant. Category 4 Hurricane Ian, one of the strongest hurricanes on record to make landfall in the U.S. mainland, hit the Ft. Myers area in 2022. Despite significant amounts of rain, extreme winds, and dangerous storm surge, the 60,000-sq.-ft. project remained effective and undamaged.