Marlins Park, ValleyCrest Landscape Development receive Environmental Improvement Award

Marlins Park and ValleyCrest Landscape Development have been named the recipient of an Environmental Improvement Grand Award by the Professional Landcare Network (PLANET). The award recognizes superior landscape projects that increase public awareness of environmental improvement and exemplify consistent use of quality materials and workmanship. The Grand award is the first-place level in the competition.

Considered to be the most sustainable ballpark in the country, Marlins Park is the world’s first retractable-roof ballpark to receive Gold LEED certification. ValleyCrest, the landscape contractor involved in the construction of Marlins Park, contributed to the park’s sustainability strategy by bringing to life key green design elements.

Among the environmentally friendly features is a water-smart irrigation system installed by ValleyCrest. The system, which consists of more than 18,000 linear-feet of sub-drainage piping, will reduce water use by an estimated 52%. In an additional boost to water efficiency, ValleyCrest planted native plant species with lower water needs. Sourced from within 500-miles of the park, the plant material is a celebration ofSouth Florida horticulture.

Accenting Marlins Park’s landscape is the colorful hardscape that comprises the stadium’s plaza and walkways, also installed by ValleyCrest. Crushed glass pavers bring a recycled element to the landscape and high-end colored concrete finishes reflect the vibrant colors of the surrounding city.

In addition to exterior landscape, ValleyCrest’s team of sports field construction experts performed construction on the interior of the ballpark including synthetic turf bullpens, batting tunnels, outfield wall padding, infield clay, home plate and all bases, a removable pitcher’s mound, foul ball netting, and sod installation.