Over the last decade, Californians have wrestled with the impact of drought, or even a "mega-drought," as some scientists and historians believe. As water has become scarce and public and community leaders have turned their attention to increasing water conservation, the traditional green lawn and landscape has been often blamed for wasting water.
The result, of course, has been seemingly endless water-use restrictions from the governor and local water districts aimed at reducing the amount of water used for grass and turf, and longer term proposals to further limit greenspaces and turf in future communities. Over the last decade, hundreds of California cities and water managers have funded turf removal programs, with some modest success. However, the rebates, typically $2-5 per square foot of removed turf, but only cover a portion of the actual total cost of yard renovation, leaving many homeowners in an already challenging economy facing significant out of pocket costs - and many are often simply not interested in a grass-free landscape for any number of personal reasons.
Many Californians, however, do recognize the significant impact of drought in their communities and are looking to become more engaged in water conservation. So, can you contribute to water conservation AND keep your lawn?
Yes.
With newer and more water efficient grasses available to homeowners, it's possible to affordably re-seed (or overseed) existing older and less water efficient lawns with more drought tolerant grasses that require significantly less water. Coupled with improved irrigation systems and increased consumer education, an opportunity exists to foster real water conservation among the vast majority of homeowners.
Of California’s total water use, approximately 4-5% can be attributed to outdoor residential use. And while every drop counts, a singular focus on a small fraction of homeowners isn't the most effective solution. Moreover, aggressive proposals to cut this use have caused some to raise concerns over tree mortality, increasing ambient temperatures (heat islands), lost carbon capture - and a potentially disproportionate impact on our more economically challenged urban communities.
Breakthrough pilot projects in Utah cities have shown new breeds of grass are a viable alternative to full turf replacement, save water and - most notably - are proving a more popular to homeowners than turf removal offers.
Should California's state and local water managers consider similar strategies ?
California City and County News will present a webinar that covers these issues and how cities, counties and other local agencies can improve conservation with minimal impacts to aesthetics and other health and ecological concerns.
Panelists will include:
Kelly Kopp - Professor, Extension Water Conservation and Turfgrass Specialist, Utah State University.
Matt Koch - Director and of Biotechnology, Genetics, and Grass Seed at The Scotts Miracle-Gro Company
Jack Karlin - Program Administrator for the Turfgrass Water Conservation Assn.
DATE: Wednesday, August 28th
TIME: 2:00 pm PST
REGISTER HERE
Have a question for the panelists? In addition to the live Q&A, you can submit any questions ahead of time to [email protected].