WaterSmart Living Archives

Chula Vista resident Shannon Nembach’s commitment to outdoor water use efficiency without sacrificing a beautiful lush landscape is the 2024 Otay Water District Landscape Makeover winner. Photo: Otay Water District landscape design

Lush Landscape Design Wins 2024 Otay Water District Makeover Contest

August 1, 2024/in WaterSmart Living /by Gayle Falkenthal

Chula Vista resident Shannon Nembach’s Italian-inspired landscaping proves that a waterwise landscape doesn’t need to be restricted to gravel and cacti. Neimbach’s makeover received the “Best In District” first-place award in the Otay Water District’s WaterSmart Landscape Contest.

Her garden is in the Otay Water District’s division 4, represented by Board President Jose Lopez.

Shannon Nembach put in 22 years of work and education to get her winning results. Photo: Otay Water District

“Otay Water District is proud to recognize Shannon Nembach for demonstrating a true commitment to outdoor water-use efficiency for more than two decades,” said Lopez. “Her efforts will continue to pay off as our region continues to transition into making WaterSmart landscaping a way of life.”

The District recognized Nembach at its August board meeting, awarding her a certificate of recognition, a gift certificate to a local nursery of her choice, a yard sign, and other promotional items.

A look at the backyard before its makeover. Photo: Otay Water District

Italian Style Inspiration

Nembach transformed her outdoor space into a lush garden with pea-gravel walkways, an inviting outdoor dining area, and low-water-use features that attract native wildlife to her Chula Vista home.

Nembach purchased the home new in 2002. There was no original landscaping, so she took advantage of the opportunity to build a beautiful, functional garden that could withstand climate change and periods of drought, inspired by her trips to Italy.

Shannon Nembach first began working on her side yard. Photo: Otay Water District

Over the past 22 years, Nembach says she used a self-directed learning approach to tailor her landscaping design efforts to her family’s specific needs and preferences. She began by expanding her side yard to part of the front to make room for a courtyard. She hired a contractor to install a retaining wall and concrete patio with an entry gate and outdoor fireplace.

The well-maintained front yard features a small riverbed and bright green water-wise plants that bloom throughout. Past the entry gate, a large canopy wraps around a long dining table near the fireplace where she regularly hosts outdoor family dinners.

The family enjoys outdoor entertaining with seating near a fireplace. Photo: Otay Water District

“I particularly enjoy the way our WaterSmart yard attracts native wildlife, creating a vibrant and dynamic ecosystem,” said Nembach. “It also provides a perfect setting for entertaining family and friends, offering a beautiful and serene backdrop for gatherings and outdoor activities.”

The backyard once included a small patch of grass for her children to play in when they were younger.

Today, raised planters near a sitting area replace the grass where Nembach grows vegetables. A cascade waterfall encompasses a sloped hill with a pond at the bottom. Low-water-use shrubs, such as Japanese Boxwood, add color throughout the yard.

Low water use plants add color throughout the landscaping. Photo: Otay Water District

Self-Taught Landscape Design

Nembach is a retired high school teacher who is self-taught in landscape design. She credits her mother, an avid gardener, with teaching her the tips and tricks of gardening. She also gained a wealth of knowledge by spending time in plant nurseries and reading Sunset Magazine and gardening books.

Shannon Nembach says she has never missed not having any grass. Photo: Otay Water District

“We have never used a gardener. My husband and I planted everything except for two trees on our hill, including wheelbarrowing 7.5 yards of pea gravel into the front courtyard to build the free-standing patio and the waterfall and pond in the backyard,” said Nembach. “The pond has provided a constant water source for all the local wildlife for over 20 years.”

“I would recommend others to upgrade their yards. I’ve never missed having grass, which I associate with high maintenance, frequent mowing, fertilizing, weed control, and excessive water use,” she said. “Instead, our drought-tolerant landscape is not only low maintenance, but also beautiful, lush, and inviting. It is practical and attractive.”

Reducing Water Use

Shannon Nembach recommends homeowners consider waterwise landscape plans of their own. Photo: Otay Water District

Nembach’s requires minimal trimming and weeding. Rainwater provides enough water during winter and spring to leave the irrigation system off. Mulching every year helps retain moisture and keeps the weeds to a minimum.

Her water-saving installations have contributed to a 42% decrease in the family’s total water usage when comparing the initial 11-year period in their household to the subsequent 11 years.

“Using water wisely has always been important to me, especially after hearing in the nineties that California’s water consumption was unsustainable,” said Nembach. “When we moved into our home in 2002, I was determined to create a landscape that could endure drought conditions and support long-term water conservation efforts.”

The McCarters' backyard landscaping after its low-water-use makeover. Photo: Vista Irrigation District landscape design

Vista Irrigation District Selects 2024 Landscape Contest Winner

July 29, 2024/in Features, WaterSmart Living /by Gayle Falkenthal

The Vista Irrigation District Board of Directors recognized Thomas McCarter as the district’s 2024 WaterSmart Landscape Contest winner at its July meeting.

McCarter and his wife, Alice, moved into their current residence three years ago. Upon moving in, their yard was mostly a blank slate, with a majority of the yard unplanted.

The McCarters’ backyard landscaping prior to its makeover. Photo: Vista Irrigation District

Working together as a team, they began to transform their yard. Alice took charge of creating a new layout for their garden.

The McCarters’ landscape project was a labor of love. They began filling in their yard with planted areas, artfully combining succulent varieties including aloes, aeoniums, euphorbias, agaves, and various groundcovers.

Unique planter bed highlights landscape design

Rocks, decorative wood, artwork, and even a raised planter “bed” with its own headboard are included in the landscaping among the plants.

Decomposed granite pathways wind through their garden, allowing the couple to move about freely and enjoy their creation.

Rain barrels help supplement the irrigation system. Photo: Vista Irrigation District

Irrigation comes from a drip system, supplemented by water collected in four rain barrels installed during the landscape project. The couple is dedicated to caring for the environment, and their ongoing landscape project reflects their commitment to sustainable living.

“It reminds us that we are walking our talk regarding healing the planet,” Thomas McCarter said of his garden. “It’s also a celebration of our marriage and working together.” Friends and neighbors also admire the McCarters’ yard when they visit.

The annual WaterSmart Landscape Contest recognizes outstanding water-wise residential landscapes based on the criteria of overall attractiveness, appropriate plant selection, design, appropriate maintenance, and efficient methods of irrigation.

“Free regional WaterSmart landscape workshops are available online and in person to assist homeowners to upgrade their home’s landscape to reduce water bills,” said Sandra Sanchez, Vista Irrigation District water conservation specialist. “Additionally, landscape equipment rebates, including those for rain barrels, are available to help with the cost.”

The Vista Irrigation District joined eleven other local agencies that held landscape contests this year, providing an opportunity to highlight residential water-wise landscapes throughout the region. Participating agencies include Vista, Helix Water District, Olivenhain Municipal Water District, Otay Water District, Padre Dam Municipal Water District, San Dieguito Water District, Sweetwater Authority, Vallecitos Water District, California American Water, Rincon Del Diablo Water District, and the cities of Escondido and Oceanside.

For more information about the contest and to see more examples of WaterSmart landscaping, visit www.landscapecontest.com . Visit the district’s website or call (760) 597-3160 to find out more about free landscape workshops and incentive programs.

The Palmer family's winning entry in the 2024 City of Escondido Landscape Makeover Contest. Photo: City of Escondido

Hard Work Pays Off for 2024 Escondido Landscape Contest Winner

July 22, 2024/in Features, WaterSmart Living /by Gayle Falkenthal

When longtime Escondido residents Anita and Larry Palmer moved into their new home in 2016, they decided the lawns and water-guzzling plants in their front and back yards “would have to go.”

The result of their landscape makeover is the 2024 City of Escondido Landscape Makeover contest winner.

The Palmer home landscaping before its award-winning makeover. Photo: City of Escondido

The homeowners hoped to save the cost of watering and maintaining the grass and be part of the solution to San Diego County’s water challenges. The Palmers worked on designing a California-friendly landscape. After the existing lawn and plants were removed, they installed new hardscape and a water-efficient drip irrigation system. They planted their new landscape with succulents and cacti propagated from cuttings and from dividing plants.

Drought-tolerant plants used in whimsical underwater theme

Seashells were added to compliment the plants in an underwater life theme. Photo: City of Escondido

Leaning into the whimsy of the underwater-esque scene created by their collection of drought-tolerant plants, the Palmers added a few seashells throughout the garden.

During their landscape transformation process, Anita and Larry enjoyed getting acquainted with their neighbors, sharing the plants they propagated, and watching the neighborhood kids peek into the garden in search of hidden fish and mermaids.

The new landscaping requires very little irrigation, and none during rainy months. Photo: City of Escondido

Today, the Palmers enjoy a landscape that requires little maintenance and is vibrant with color year-round for them and their neighbors. It serves as a source of inspiration to their fellow water-savvy community members. During rainy months, the Palmers can turn their outside water irrigation off completely.

The Palmers have seen a gradual transformation as neighbors follow their example by adopting low-water-use landscaping at their homes. “No two yards that have dry landscaping are the same,” said Anita Palmer. “It’s whatever works for each family.”

The Palmers used succulents and other plants, many of which they propagated themselves from cuttings. Photo: City of Escondido

The Palmers used varieties of Aeoniums, Aloes, Bryophyllum, and Crassula varieties (Jade Plants), Echeveria, Euphorbia, Gasterias, and Graptoveria, which are hybrids of Echeveria and Graptophyllum succulents, Haworthia (Zebra cactus), Sansevieria, Senicio, and sedums, including Donkey’s Tail.

They planted purple statice, ornamental Blue Fescue grass, Mediterranean fan palms, and Desert Museum Palo Verde trees.

City of Escondido Awards Honorable Mention

Patricia Jablonski (left) with friend Kay Campbell. The women worked together on Patricia’s Honorable Mention landscape project. Photo: City of Escondido

The City of Escondido selected Patricia Jablonski’s contest entry as its 2024 Honorable Mention. Jablonski has continuously evolved her landscape since the family moved into the home in 1971.

Once the site of a small but thirsty avocado grove and numerous roses, the yard now features a dry riverbed, a serene rock garden for contemplation, and a variety of succulents and drought-tolerant natives that thrive on a timed drip irrigation system. The garden is a welcoming space where Jablonski often spends time with friends, family, and neighbors.

The Bonita Organic Garden Club received multiple awards for its 'Singing Cowgirls' garden, which features a beautifully rustic sustainable garden. Photo: San Diego County Water Authority Landscape Exhibits

Award-Winning County Fair Landscape Exhibits Educate and Entertain

July 10, 2024/in WaterSmart Living /by Gayle Falkenthal

San Diego County Fair attendees found inspiration for low-water-use sustainable landscaping projects from award-winning examples of creative climate-appropriate and native plant gardens at the Fair’s popular Paul Ecke Jr. Garden Show exhibit area.

Californians Learning About Sustainable Landscape Design

The Nifty 50 plants are attractive, non-invasive, easy to maintain, long-term performers and are water-wise once established. You can find them at local nurseries.

Debby Dunn, Senior Water Resources Specialist with the Water Authority, explains how Californians are changing their vision of the ideal home landscape design.

“More than ever, people are looking to create colorful landscapes that use water wisely and invite birds, bees and butterflies,” said Debby Dunn, Senior Water Resources Specialist with the Water Authority. “Interest in California native plants, as well as waterwise plants from Australia and South Africa, is skyrocketing.”

The Water Authority’s new Nifty 50 plant list and the soon-to-be-released Happy 100 plant list can help homeowners with landscape plant selection ideal for the San Diego region. Learn more at https://www.sdcwa.org/your-water/conservation/

Bonita Organic Garden Club Wins Multiple Awards

The Bonita Organic Garden Club’s display encourages healthier organic, sustainable gardening practices. Photo: San Diego County Water Authority

The Bonita Organic Garden Club received multiple awards for its ‘Singing Cowgirls’ garden, which features a beautifully rustic sustainable garden. The Club asked fairgoers to mimic nature and embrace organic gardening. Display signage described the negative impact of chemicals, which harm beneficial soil microbes, enter urban stormwater runoff, and reduce the nutritional value and flavor of fruits and vegetables.

Groovy Garden Fits Fair’s “Retro” Theme Perfectly

Humor is used to get attention for serious low-water-use landscaping tips in the “Groovy Garden” created by Water Authority Senior Resources Specialist Debby Dunn. Photo: San Diego County Water Authority

Dunn created her own individual “Groovy Garden” display with two themes: 1960s Groovy on one side, and 1970s Disco on the other. While the two sides were separated by a peace-shaped path and different color schemes, both had whimsical elements and colorful water-wise plants. Dunn’s exhibit won first place for depicting the Fair’s theme, “Let’s Go Retro,” plus three additional awards acknowledging her exhibits’ environmental messages.

“It’s all about creating a landscape that illustrates your personality and passion. For me, it’s Flower Power, fun, and plants that invite birds, bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds,” said Dunn.

Dunn demonstrated various ways to capture stormwater runoff with a dry streambed equipped with a variety of theme-based ducks, a rain chain, and a rain barrel. She also repurposed colorful thrift store and garage sale finds to educate through imagination and humor.

Using Humor To Convey Water-Saving Tips

“I created different rooms including a bedroom, kitchen, living room, and even a bathroom. Everything is upcycled including my pink and my avocado green toilets,” said Dunn. “They are there to remind people that toilet leaks are the number one cause of water loss. One running toilet can flow up to 200 gallons an hour, enough water to fill a pool in four days.”

“My garden promotes education with easy-to-implement tips. It’s definitely over the top because sometimes that’s how you catch somebody’s attention. People are going to stop and say, ‘Look at that pink toilet!’ Then they might read the sign and wonder if their toilet is running before they move on to the next garden.”

Dunn used theme-appropriate items, including a lava lamp and disco ball, to entice fairgoers to her display. “My goal is to bring them in with fun an

Low-Water Use Gardens Suit Many Design Styles

Dunn said low-water-use landscapes offer many different styles to suit individual tastes and needs, similar to interior design styles. “Everyone’s got their look and their style. It’s the same with plants. There are so many options and choices with these plants. There’s something for everybody.

“If you’ve got kids and dogs, you may need grass. But if the only person walking on the grass is the person mowing the grass, you likely don’t need the grass.

There are countless beautiful, native, and California-friendly plants you can place in your garden that will bring you entertainment and joy,” said Dunn.

Large scale landscape makeover projects like this one by the Jamacha Park HOA may be eligible for increased landscape rebates. Photo: Otay Water District

Increased Rebates in 2024 for Large-Scale Landscape Makeover Projects

July 3, 2024/in Features, WaterSmart Living /by Gayle Falkenthal

San Diego County businesses and public agencies looking to replace ornamental grass with more sustainable landscaping are now eligible for increased rebates from the Metropolitan Water District of Southern California.

Metropolitan has added one dollar to its Turf Replacement Program base incentive to $3 per square foot for commercial, industrial and institutional sectors and $4 for public agencies that swap out non-functional grass with California Friendly® and native landscaping.

Funding for the program is provided by a $30 million grant from the California Department of Water Resources.

Landscape makeovers can still be lush and colorful while conserving water.

“We’ve made huge gains in water-use efficiency in Southern California, and businesses and public agencies have the opportunity to help us further that progress,” said Metropolitan Interim General Manager Deven Upadhyay.

“By switching to landscaping that is both beautiful and sustainable, they can help our region better adapt to our changing climate while cutting costs and demonstrating leadership in sustainability in their communities.”

The rebate also helps businesses and municipalities comply with new state legislation taking effect in 2027. Assembly Bill 1572 phases out the use of potable water to irrigate non-functional grass that is not used for recreation or other purposes.

“It’s a great opportunity to reduce the cost to eliminate non-functional turf before the state’s watering ban (AB1572) takes effect,” said Debby Dunn, senior water resources specialist at the San Diego County Water Authority.

For assistance, contact or 858-522-6745.

Additional help for San Diego County projects

SLIDER The Panorama HOA in Lake San Marcos achieved beautiful results from its landscaping makeover project, which will conserve water and preserve the region's watershed. Photo: Vallecitos Water District landscape rebates

The Panorama HOA in Lake San Marcos achieved beautiful results from its landscaping makeover project, which will conserve water and preserve the region’s watershed. Photo: Vallecitos Water District

Projects in the unincorporated areas of San Diego County can receive an addition $1 per square foot for their turf removal projects

In an effort to help expand our region’s tree canopy and promote sustainability, a newly launched rebate provides an additional $100 per tree incorporated into projects. Both commercial and residential participants can receive this rebate for up to five trees per project.

Long-term water savings from conservation programs

WaterSmart Irrigation-Rebates-Water Efficiency

Rebates are available to help property owners in unincorporated areas reduce expenses, providing significant savings on outdoor landscapes.

Metropolitan’s Turf Replacement Program has directly resulted in the removal of over 220 million square feet of grass. This saves enough water to serve about 68,000 households each year.

Conservation programs play an important role in the region’s water supply reliability. Today, about 2.5 million acre-feet of the record 3.4 million acre-feet Metropolitan holds in regional storage is water that has been conserved and stored instead of being consumed. That conserved water has been instrumental in staving off additional and more widespread calls for mandatory water cutbacks.

“We know the challenges ahead will require us to think differently and make the right investments in our infrastructure and water supplies,” said Metropolitan board chair Adán Ortega, Jr. “We appreciate the tremendous work the public has done to help us become more resilient to our extreme weather patterns and look forward to the continued progress that we can achieve as a region.”

For more information on Metropolitan’s conservation initiatives and rebate programs and to apply for a commercial, industrial, institutional or public agency rebate, visit bewaterwise.com/turf.

The Fairways HOA landscape makeover in Lake San Marcos retains some turf mixed with low-water use plants for substantial water savings. Photo: Vallecitos Water District

Turf Rebate Program Offering More Money for Less Grass

July 1, 2024/in WaterSmart Living /by Jordan Beane

For residents across the region thinking about turning their front yards into sustainable, WaterSmart landscapes, now’s a great time to act. If you’re looking to get ahead of AB 1572, a law passed last year that bans the irrigation of ornamental turf with potable water starting in 2027, the opportunity to get rid of your grass is too good to pass up right now.

That’s thanks to a grant program through the California Department of Water Resources, which updated its rebate rates for commercial and residential turf removal. That includes an increase from $2 per square foot to $3 per square foot. Properties in the unincorporated area of San Diego are eligible to receive an additional $1 per square foot funded by the County’s Waterscape Rebate Program.

The HOA was able to remove 2,746 square feet of turf surrounding the clubhouse and tennis court areas. Photo: Vallecitos Water District

Grass must be living until the application is approved. That means no dead lawns, dirt landscapes, or projects already in progress. Additionally synthetic turf grass is not allowed to be installed through this program.

Applicants must plant a minimum of three plants or one tree per 100 square feet and those trees must be 15 gallons or larger. For those individuals looking to plant more, a $100 tree rebate is also available for up to 5 trees per project when requested as part of a turf rebate application. For additional information about this exciting rebate program, please visit SoCalWaterSmart.com.

To help select the right climate appropriate plants for your new landscape, check out San Diego County Water Authority’s updated Nifty 50 plant list.

Catherine and Bryan Binotti replaced the outdated and drab landscape of their charming and recently-historically-designated 1950 house in the Brier Patch neighborhood of La Mesa. Photo: Helix Water District landscape contest

Grossmont Home Wins Helix Water District 2024 Landscape Contest

June 23, 2024/in WaterSmart Living /by Gayle Falkenthal

Catherine and Bryan Binotti’s transformation of the front yard of their historic La Mesa home to a lush, water-efficient landscape was selected as the winner of the Helix Water District 2024 Water-Smart Landscape Contest.

The annual competition recognizes residents for their outstanding water-efficient landscapes based on overall attractiveness, design, efficient irrigation, appropriate plant selection and maintenance.

After years of work, the Binottis have created a lush waterwise landscape and a vibrant ecosystem. Photo: Helix Water District

The Binottis replaced the outdated and drab landscape of their charming and recently historically designated 1950 house in the Brier Patch neighborhood of La Mesa. The new front yard is a colorful paradise boasting beauty and curb appeal. “What better way to meet the neighbors, than gardening in the front yard! What started as a conservation effort – of time, water, and financial resources – has turned into such a joy,” said Catherine.

Plant Mix Compliments Home Design

The plant mix compliments the home design and color scheme. Photo: Helix Water District

The garden is set back behind hedges and fruit trees with a lush mix of flowering plants and greens that complement the colors of their home and the taller surrounding plants. Catherine is employed as a hospital laboratory scientist. Gardening is her creative outlet to balance her analytical side.

The Binottis entered their previous home in the 2020 landscape contest. The same year, they moved nearby into their current home and wanted more from their landscape.

The design includes drifts and groupings of color. Photo: Helix Water District

Catherine designed the garden herself. It incorporates drifts, harmonious groupings of the same plants, to create cohesive sections of color. By layering these drifts, she adds depth and creates a relaxed feel. She strategically placed specimen plants to create focal points and used taller plants to screen out less appealing views.

Catherine drew inspiration from landscapes she saw on Pinterest, walking in her neighborhood, and exploring nurseries. “In spring when everything is flowering, I’ll walk through all the neighborhoods to figure out what plants grow well and try to mimic what I like about other yards and try to mix it into what I want in my yard.”

Bright Colors Inspire Plant Choices

Bursts of floral color highlight the landscaping. Photo: Helix Water District

Her preferred plant choices feature yellow, pink, purple, and orange flowers. “Initially, I’d walk around nurseries and take lots of photos,” explained Catherine. “I’d often get asked for help a lot because I’d just be wandering and taking lots of pictures. Then come back home and look at them all.”

Plants featured in the landscape include Rockrose, Foxtail Agave, Purple Leaf Plum Tree, Peruvian Lily, Mexican Feather Grass, Gold Coin Daisy, Santa Barbara Daisy, Gold Strike Protea, Pink Muhly Grass, Grevillea Coastal Gem, Pride of Madeira, and Yarrow.

Efficient Irrigation Updates

The Binottis say the waterwise landscape was a logical choice for them and ‘a wonderful source of joy.’ Photo: Helix Water District

The Binottis removed the outdated irrigation system. They retrofitted fruit trees with pressure-compensating drip irrigation and installed new drip lines for everything else. Additionally, downspouts direct rainwater into the front planter. The couple has plans for more rainwater collection.

After years of work, the couple has created a lush waterwise landscape and a vibrant ecosystem. “The yard is always alive with bees, butterflies, lizards, birds, and an occasional coyote,” said Catherine. “A waterwise landscape is the logical choice for us and a wonderful source of joy for us and others. We love the color and contrasts spring brings to the charm of our recently designated historic 1950s La Mesa home.”

The landscape contest runs from January through mid-May each year. Visit Helix’s website at hwd.com, Facebook.com/HelixWater or X at @HelixWater for more information.

Homeowner Rick Whitney's landscape makeover was named the 2024 Landscape Contest winner by the Olivenhain Municipal Water District. Photo: Olivenhain Municipal Water District

Award-Winning Landscape Design Features Rainwater Capture

June 21, 2024/in WaterSmart Living /by Gayle Falkenthal

Olivenhain Municipal Water District’s Board of Directors honored Rick Whitney as the 2024 WaterSmart Landscape design contest winner.

The winning design includes a seating area to let visitors sit and enjoy the space. Photo: Olivenhain Municipal Water District

Water agencies throughout the county participate in an annual contest to encourage landscape transformations that reduce outdoor water use, are attractive, and often require less maintenance than turf-heavy landscapes. Each agency selects a winner within its service area that exhibits climate-appropriate plant selection, water-efficient irrigation, and appealing design.

Rainwater Capture Reduces Runoff

Dry riverbeds are attractive as well as functional, capturing rainwater runoff. Photo: Olivenhain Municipal Water District

“Using water efficiently outdoors will always be important in Southern California, and replacing a lawn with a water-wise landscape can significantly reduce water bills,” said OMWD Vice President Matthew Hahn. “Mr. Whitney’s California-friendly alternative to grass provides an attractive example of a sustainable, water-wise landscape.”

Mr. Whitney’s water-efficient landscape uses rainwater capture in its design. Rainwater from the roof collects in a rock riverbed, keeping it on the property and reducing runoff that can carry pollutants to waterways and beaches. An in-line drip system irrigates all other areas of the landscape.

Beautiful New Yard Yields Water Savings

A closer look at the dry riverbed and plant selection. Photo: Olivenhain Municipal Water District

“We decided to install a water-conserving landscape because of the severe drought California has experienced over the last decade,” said Mr. Whitney. “We are glad we did, as our water usage is down now, and our front yard looks beautiful.”

The San Diego County Water Authority offers free WaterSmart landscaping classes with several choices designed to give you the skills and knowledge to create a landscape that saves water and will thrive in our region.

Local landscape design professionals teach workshops using a do-it-yourself approach. They cover landscape design and maintenance, soil identification and health, turf types and removal tips, plant selection, rainwater catchment, irrigation retrofits, and project installation.

For more information and to register, visit sdcwa.org/your-water/conservation/classes

Volunteers participate in the City of San Diego's Arbor Day tree planting event in 2023. Photo: City of San Diego

Celebrate Arbor Day: Discover How San Diego’s Tree Planting Programs Combat Climate Change and Save Water

April 23, 2024/in Features, WaterSmart Living /by Gayle Falkenthal

With climate change creating new challenges for managing safe and reliable water supplies, trees are increasingly recognized and relied on for their importance in helping mitigate weather extremes and contributing to water conservation efforts.

Trees are among the most valuable investments in San Diego County’s landscape – including your own waterwise landscaping. No other landscape plant plays a more significant role in fighting climate change and managing a healthy watershed.

National Arbor Day on Friday, April 26, presents an opportunity to call attention to the benefits of planting trees. Several Arbor Day promotions and ongoing programs in San Diego County offer support for planting trees, including rebates and volunteer events that let you contribute to the effort to provide more trees.

New Tree Rebate Program Launched By Metropolitan Water District

Carefully selected trees are the most valuable addition to your sustainable landscaping. Photo: Helix Water District

The Metropolitan Water District of Southern California launched a new rebate program in March, offering residents and businesses $100 for each eligible tree planted in their yards to replace thirsty grass for more sustainable landscaping.

Metropolitan’s new “tree-bate” provides incentives for up to five trees in residents’ and businesses’ turf replacement projects. The district partnered with TreePeople and local water agencies to identify and recommend trees with lower water use that are appropriate for Southern California’s climate.

Learn about this new rebate and existing rebates at the Be Water Wise website.

SDGE Community Tree Rebate Program

San Diego Gas & Electric offers a tree planting guide through its rebate program. Photo: SDGE

The San Diego Gas & Electric’s (SDGE) Community Tree Rebate Program for Residential Customers allows qualifying residential customers throughout the region to plant trees that provide environmental, health, and economic benefits.

Qualifying customers can receive a $25 rebate for planting or potting a one-gallon tree, a $35 rebate for a five-gallon tree, and a $50 rebate for a 15-gallon tree. Customers can apply for up to five rebates annually. Customers do not need a yard to qualify. Trees can be planted in large containers on outdoor balconies or patio areas.

City of San Diego Arbor Day Event

Volunteers are needed for an Arbor Day event to help plant trees at Memorial Community Park. Photo: City of San Diego

On Arbor Day, the City of San Diego’s Urban Forestry Program hopes to plant 100 new trees at Memorial Community Park in Logan Heights. It needs volunteers to help with planting, prepping soil, spreading mulch, and cleanup. Learn more and sign up using this link.

Throughout the year, City of San Diego residents can request a new street tree through Free Tree SD. This program allows residents and the City to work together by increasing San Diego’s tree canopy cover. Residents need to identify a space in the public right-of-way and agree to water the tree for three years. City arborists will evaluate the space and determine an appropriate tree selection. Fill out the Free Tree SD application form on the City’s website to get started.

City of Escondido Celebrates Arbor Day 2024

The City of Escondido needs volunteers to help plant 120 trees for Arbor Day on Saturday, April 27, from 8:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. Meet at the House of Prayer Lutheran Church, 795 N. Rose Street. Trees will be planted from Oleander Place to Fern Street between Lincoln Avenue and Mission Avenue. Volunteers of all ages are welcome and are asked to wear comfortable clothing for getting dirty, close-toe shoes, and a hat. Sunscreen is highly recommended. Register on the City website.

City of Vista Residential Tree Giveaway Program

The City of Vista now offers a new Residential Tree Giveaway Program. This initiative is available to Vista residents who own property or have permission from the property owner to plant a tree on the premises. The program is first-come, first-served, and available as long as the funds last. Increasing the local tree canopy on private properties enhances wildlife habitat, mitigates the effects of climate change, and supports the City’s Climate Action Plan goals.

Applications are available now. Since this is a pilot program, it is only available as long as funds last. It was funded through a $50,000 year-end fund balance request, approved by the City Council at the end of 2023. The application form is on the City of Vista website.

County of San Diego Tree Planting Program

The County of San Diego surpassed its goal of planting 10,000 trees in 2023 by adding 11,010 trees, including 5,744 new trees planted at County parks and facilities, 1,637 trees planted through non-government organizational partnerships, and 3,629 trees planted by incorporated cities. The Board of Supervisors has budgeted funds to plant 4,000 trees through spring 2024.

The County has a tree plotter to help staff track tree inventory and plantings regionwide. Residents can participate by reporting trees they plant on their own. Visit the County’s Tree Plotter web page to get started.

The Role of Trees In Preventing Climate Change

Healthy trees fight climate change and cool our cities, provide habitat, and improve the health of our neighborhoods. Photo: Kampus Production / Pexels

The hydrological cycle heavily relies on trees to absorb water in the atmosphere. Trees act as water reservoirs, taking in water from the soil and releasing it through their leaves, a process known as transpiration. The added moisture in the air leads to rainfall and the continuation of the water cycle.

Tree root systems filter and remove pollutants and slow down water absorption into the soil. This process helps to prevent erosion and reduce the risk of over-saturation and flooding.

Trees provide cooling to increasingly hot neighborhoods and cities, and they are among the most efficient tools for removing harmful carbon dioxide that fuels global warming.

San Diego forestry and landscaping professionals work with the San Diego County Water Authority and its 23 member agencies to help protect our region’s trees while conserving water. Find more resources at the Kate Sessions Trees website.

Fairways HOA Achieves Savings Through Landscape Optimization

March 21, 2024/in Features, WaterSmart Living /by Gayle Falkenthal

A Lake San Marcos homeowners association successfully upgraded its community landscape to achieve water savings and cost savings with assistance from a joint program offered through a partnership between the San Diego County Water Authority and the County of San Diego.

The original Fairways HOA landscaping included large areas of unused grass. Photo: Vallecitos Water District

The Landscape Optimization Service (LOS) offered through the Waterscape Rebate Program is a technical assistance program for large-scale landscaping projects in the unincorporated areas of San Diego County. The program helps applicants with large landscapes, such as HOAs, parks, and commercial properties, to navigate the requirements, overcome any barriers, and maximize their rebate eligibility.

Members of the Fairways Homeowners Association (HOA) in Lake San Marcos within the Vallecitos Water District recently took advantage of this program to facilitate a water-saving landscape makeover project. Upgrades replaced large grass areas with attractive low-water-use plants inside the property. Drip irrigation was upgraded, and swales act as a water retention feature.

Learn more about the Fairways HOA transformation in this new video.

Saving Costs, Saving The Environment

Fairways HOA president Terry Brown said her community was introduced to the program about 18 months ago.

“We removed 23,000 square feet, and then we got three dollars for each square foot that we removed, plus we got 40 cents for the drip irrigation system. We’re going to receive one dollar per square foot for at least 10,000 square feet of California native plants. So, we did all of that. And we’re pleased with everything that has happened,” said Brown.

New landscaping includes low-water use plants, decorative dry riverbeds, and low-water use plants along small areas of grass for walkers and pet owners. Photo: Vallecitos Water District

While rebates defrayed the initial costs, the real savings will be realized in the years ahead on one of the HOA’s major expenses. “Within ten years, we’ll save $40,000 on water,” said Brown.

Maggie Knol, chairperson of the Landscape Committee, is also a Master Gardener. She understood the need to balance the needs of everyone in the community while planning their landscape makeover.

“We saw certain areas that weren’t really being used where we could definitely have some waterscape landscaping,” said Knol. Now, irrigation water is better managed and used only where needed.

“We have no water in the gutters. That makes us feel better about what we’re doing for our environment,” said Knol. “I would encourage any subdivision or any area to go ahead with it. It’s a wonderful program.

Still Room for Thoughtful Use of Grass

Grass can still be a useful part of a low-water-use landscape. Photo: Vallecitos Water District

Makeovers don’t require eliminating all grass. Instead, grass is retained where it is most useful and practical. For the Fairways HOA board members, this meant accommodating the many residents who like to walk their dogs in the neighborhood and wanted to retain some grassy spaces for them to enjoy with their pets.

“We have tried to be sensitive to the dog owners in the neighborhood because we have a lot of dogs,” said Knol. “When we mapped this out, we left certain areas that could be definitely used as little rest spots for the dogs and the owners as they walk around. They all realize that the water crisis is going to continue and not get better.”

“This project is an ideal example of balancing community needs to create a thoughtful landscape design that saves water but allows room for retaining grass areas when there’s a practical purpose for them,” said Vallecitos Water District Conservation Supervisor Chris Robbins.

The completed Fairways HOA landscape makeover in Lake San Marcos retains some turf mixed with low-water use plants for substantial water savings. Photo: Vallecitos Water District

As part of the program, LOS staff analyzes estimated water and cost savings, which helps decision-makers justify the investment with an understanding of how quickly the project will pay for itself. The program also offers discounted designs to participants.

The enhanced incentives include rebates for turf replacement, smart controller stations, rain barrels, and cisterns. In addition to offering technical assistance to upgrade larger landscapes on multifamily and commercial properties, a cost-share is available for agricultural growers to make water-saving upgrades.

More information on the Landscape Optimization Service can be found here, or contact your member water agency for details. The program is actively recruiting new participants.

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