Alternatives to lawns in a townhouse community?

Between last summer's drought and a nasty blizzard in February, our community's lawn has taken quite a beating. I had hoped most of the grass would return this spring, but in looking at my lawn and others (in between all the rain we've had lately), it seems we have a ton of dead spots and so I'm not so sure the grass will be coming back.

The Board has begun discussing reseeding the lawns, perhaps doing the worst hit this spring (if the rain ever stops!) and the rest in the fall, but I'm wondering if we should also consider alternatives to lawns. From what I have read on the subject, they can be easier to care for (and not just because you don't have to mow them) and are better for the enviroment, but am not sure how they would look in the community.

I know I'll have to check the CCRs to see if this is something the Board can do (even if we can, I'd want homeowner imput first, along with a presentation or two of what the community might look like), but in the meantime, I was wondering if those of you in townhome communities have converted your landscaping this way, especially if you live in the Midwest. Any thoughts or suggestions regarding cost, how long this might take and what sort of plants should replace the lawn would be welcome!

Shelia,

You should also check your governing documents. Ours actually state that we can not reduce any green areas (odd I know but that's what it says).

Tim

Sheliah,

As a Master Gardener, my first response to you would be to check in with your County's Extension office for true and tested materials that are provided to your community thru thr U. of Indiana on landscape ideas for your climate. Every State seems to be on the Xeriscape and water friendly landscape needs. They will provide you with lists on plant materials that have adapted to your specific area. GO NATIVES!!!! They are native because they like it there and require the least amount of care and watering.

For everyone's information, Purdue is a leader in Plant Sciences work. They will be able to help you Sheilah, if only on their websites. Good Luck.