Hudson Lawn Aeration Services

Our Lawn Aeration Process

Contact Hudson's Department of Public Works for Soil Core Disposal & Aeration Debris Management

Proper disposal of soil cores and aeration debris is essential for maintaining Hudson’s environmental standards and complying with Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection (MassDEP) guidelines. From April through November, residents can utilize the Hudson Transfer Station for yard waste, including aeration cores, following the town’s seasonal collection schedule. Biodegradable paper bags are required—plastic bags are not permitted—to ensure organic material can be composted efficiently. Leaving soil cores on the lawn to decompose naturally is recommended, as they break down within 2-4 weeks, returning nutrients to the soil and improving structure. If removal is necessary, always allow cores to dry and break down before heavy rain to prevent runoff. For more information on yard waste procedures, composting programs, and seasonal hours, contact the Department of Public Works below:

Hudson Department of Public Works
1 Municipal Drive, Hudson, MA 01749
Phone: (978) 562-9333
Official Website: Hudson Department of Public Works

Understanding Soil Compaction in Hudson's Glacial Till Soils

Hudson’s landscape is shaped by glacial till soils, as identified by the USDA Web Soil Survey. These soils are typically dense, with a mix of silt, sand, gravel, and occasional rocks, leading to poor drainage and a tendency toward compaction—especially in areas with high foot or vehicle traffic. The region’s soils are often acidic (5.5-6.5 pH), requiring periodic lime applications to support healthy turf. Seasonal high water tables and shallow bedrock can further restrict root growth and exacerbate surface water issues. Common indicators of compaction in Hudson include standing water after Nor’easters or snowmelt, hard or crusted soil, thinning grass, moss in shaded areas, and persistent puddling. Annual core aeration is recommended for glacial till and clay soils, while sandy outwash areas may require less frequent treatment but benefit from added organic matter. For site-specific soil testing, consult:

UMass Soil and Plant Nutrient Testing Laboratory
203 Paige Laboratory, 161 Holdsworth Way, Amherst, MA 01003
Phone: (413) 545-2311
Official Website: UMass Soil and Plant Nutrient Testing Laboratory

Hudson Conservation Commission Guidelines for Core Aeration Near Protected Areas

When planning core aeration near wetlands, streams, ponds, or vernal pools, Hudson property owners must comply with the Massachusetts Wetlands Protection Act. The Conservation Commission oversees activities within buffer zones 25-50 feet from protected resources. Before aerating in these areas, submit a Notice of Intent (NOI) or Request for Determination of Applicability (RDA) to the Commission. Timing restrictions may apply during sensitive wildlife breeding seasons (March-August for birds, March-June for amphibians in vernal pools). Coordination with the Massachusetts Division of Fisheries and Wildlife is recommended for properties near rare species habitats. Always check for local jurisdiction and obtain written approval before starting work. For guidance, contact:

Hudson Conservation Commission
78 Main Street, Hudson, MA 01749
Phone: (978) 562-2948
Official Website: Hudson Conservation Commission

Hudson's Implementation of Massachusetts Soil Health & Environmental Regulations for Aeration Operations

Hudson enforces Massachusetts soil health and environmental regulations to ensure that aeration operations protect both turf and local ecosystems. Organic waste from aeration must be managed according to MassDEP standards, which prohibit plastic bags and encourage composting or natural decomposition. The UMass Extension recommends fall aeration (late August-October) for cool-season grasses, with spring as a secondary option. Acidic soils common in Hudson benefit from lime applications to raise pH to 6.5-7.0. Aeration improves infiltration, reduces runoff, and enhances nutrient uptake, supporting compliance with the Massachusetts Clean Waters Act. For best results, schedule aeration when soil is moist but not saturated, and coordinate with irrigation winterization and septic system maintenance in rural areas. For regulatory details, contact:

Hudson Board of Health
78 Main Street, Hudson, MA 01749
Phone: (978) 562-2020
Official Website: Hudson Board of Health

Post-Aeration Stormwater Management in Compliance with Hudson's MS4 Permit Program

After aeration, managing stormwater is critical to prevent sediment and nutrient runoff into Hudson’s waterways. The town operates under the MS4 (Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System) permit, as required by the Clean Water Act and Massachusetts Clean Waters Act. The MassDEP Stormwater Management Standards require erosion and sediment controls, especially near catch basins, wetlands, and buffer zones. Leaving soil cores on the lawn helps filter runoff and stabilize soil. Avoid aeration before heavy rain, and use compost topdressing to further reduce erosion. For weather updates, consult the National Weather Service Boston/Norton. For MS4 compliance questions, contact:

Hudson Building Department/Inspectional Services
78 Main Street, Hudson, MA 01749
Phone: (978) 562-2989
Official Website: Hudson Building Department/Inspectional Services

What Neighborhoods Do We Serve Throughout Hudson, MA?

Hudson’s neighborhoods each present unique soil and landscape challenges. The historic downtown and Main Street corridor feature glacial till soils with shallow bedrock and mature maples, requiring annual aeration and careful root zone management. The Brigham Street area, near the Assabet River and Conservation Commission lands, has higher water tables and periodic flooding, demanding attention to drainage and buffer zone regulations. The Lake Boon district, with sandy outwash soils and proximity to wetlands, benefits from organic matter additions and compliance with wetland setbacks. Colonial-era neighborhoods along Washington Street often have stone walls and compacted soils from centuries of use. The Cox Street and Forest Avenue areas, developed mid-century, face compaction from vehicle traffic and snow storage. Newer subdivisions off Chestnut Street may have engineered soils but still require regular aeration due to construction compaction. For park and recreation area guidance, contact:

Hudson Parks and Recreation
29 Church Street, Hudson, MA 01749
Phone: (978) 568-9642
Official Website: Hudson Parks and Recreation

Hudson Municipal Ordinances for Core Aeration Equipment Operation & Noise Control

Hudson enforces municipal ordinances to minimize noise and disruption from core aeration equipment. Operations are permitted from 7 AM-7 PM weekdays and 8 AM-6 PM Saturdays; Sunday work may be restricted. Equipment must meet local noise standards, and commercial operators are required to carry proper licensing and insurance. Before any aeration, always notify Dig Safe (811) at least 72 hours in advance to mark underground utilities and protect irrigation, septic, and electrical lines. Multiple passes may be needed for heavily compacted urban soils, and all work should be scheduled around weather forecasts from the National Weather Service Boston/Norton. For further details on local ordinances and permitting, consult:

Hudson Building Department/Inspectional Services
78 Main Street, Hudson, MA 01749
Phone: (978) 562-2989
Official Website: Hudson Building Department/Inspectional Services

For additional resources, visit UMass Turf Program, USDA Web Soil Survey, Massachusetts Audubon Society, and EPA NPDES Program.