Over the last decade, hundreds of California cities and water managers have turned to turf removal programs as a water-saving measure during drought. But turf removal remains unpopular with my homeowners. It also has unintended consequences, particularly when it comes to urban heat and climate change.
Fortunately, there are newer and more water-efficient grasses available. By re-seeding (or overseeding) older and less water-efficient lawns, homeowners can keep the green while still conserving water. State and local water managers would be wise to consider similar strategies.
California City News was excited to host a recent webinar with three experts on the subject: turf grass specialist and Utah State Professor Kelly Kopp; Turfgrass Water Conservation Assn. Program Administrator Jack Karlin; and Matt Koch, Director of Biotechnology, Genetics, and Grass Seed at The Scotts Miracle-Gro Company.
Attendees learned about the limitations of turf removal, as well as breakthrough pilot projects in places like Utah, where new breeds of grass are being used as an alternative to full turf replacement with great success.
Watch the recording here.