The Capitol south lawn in Jefferson City is being replaced because of patchy dry spots.
Contractors from Brown & Root Industrial Services are removing the existing sod, as well as a hard clay pan and gravel in some areas, and will replace it with new top soil and grass sod.
The area has been fenced off for several days, and crews began tearing up the lawn this week.
Chris Moreland, communication director for the Office of Administration, said gravel and clay were found under the existing sod just after the Capitol renovation was completed earlier this year.
"That was resulting in chronic and extensive dry patches of grass and required excessive watering," Moreland said.
The $126,000 project is expected to be complete before the start of the legislative session Jan. 5.
Moreland said the state is currently assessing who is responsible for the cost of the new lawn.