Rebates Archives

Tom Watson's winning project for the City of Oceanside is a pollinator's paradise. Photo: City of Oceanside

Pollinator Paradise Wins 2026 Oceanside Landscape Makeover Contest

July 6, 2026/in Achievements, Features, WaterSmart Living /by Gayle Falkenthal

The 2026 winner of the City of Oceanside’s annual Landscape Makeover Contest created a beautiful water smart landscape focused on pollinator-friendly plants that became a personal legacy.

Oceanside resident Tom Watson and his wife Patti began working on landscape upgrades after being inspired during his regular neighborhood dog walks.

“I’d seen a lot of nice gardens going for walks with our dog,” said Watson. “It had been in my mind two years. Gee, it would be nice to have something more interesting than just grass, and if it’s good for the environment, that’s great too!”

Then Watson received information from the City of Oceanside about its WaterSmart Landscape Makeover Contest. The possibility of qualifying for a rebate for replacing non-functional turf got his attention.

“If you did a garden upgrade that met certain criteria for removing turf and replacing it in a certain way, you could qualify for a rebate,” recalls Watson. “So we did that.”

Swales Incorporated Into Design

A large Agave Attenuata, Yarrow, and Small Cape Rush in the winning landscape. Photo: T. Watson/City of Oceanside

Watson worked with landscape designer Lisa Bellora of Ornamental Gardens by Lida. “I didn’t know much about this in the beginning, so I learned a lot,” said Watson. Bellora introduced him to the concept of integrated swales into the landscape. Swales manage stormwater runoff, prevent soil erosion, and encourage natural groundwater infiltration by slowing down water and directing it safely across a property.

“I thought it was great how she integrated the concept into the design,” said Watson. “There was also a lot more in the details of the drip irrigation systems, and how they have to be figured out.”

The heart of the garden is its plant palette, designed to attract pollinators. It was his late wife Patti’s idea, who insisted on it. “We did want a lot of butterflies and other critters, so we chose a lot of plants that are pollinator-friendly,” said Watson.

Plants used include Lantana, Coyote Mint, Elephant Food, Yarrow (Achillea M Paprika), ‘Winifred Gilman’ Pozo Blue and Cleveland Sages, Howard McMinn Manzanita (Arctostaphylos ‘Howard McMinn’), Marian Simpson Coyote Mint (Monardella), Agave Attenuata, and Small Cape Rush (Chondro El Campo).

Surprise Winner of 2026 Landscape Contest

Yellow Lantana was added to the landscape to attract pollinators. Photo: T. Watson/City of Oceanside

Once the yard was completed, Watson noticed the invitation to enter the contest earlier this year. “I said I’m gonna enter and see what happens,” said Watson. What happened was being named the 2026 winner.

“I have the certificate proudly on my refrigerator, next to the pictures of the grandkids! It’s like I got an A on my report card,” laughed.

The winning result is a water-efficient garden full of vibrant color equally appealing to people and pollinators.

Tom Watson hung butterfly wind chimes in honor of his late wife, Patti Watson. Photo: T. Watson.

Patti Watson passed away before Tom Watson’s contest entry was submitted. Her reward was enjoying visits by the butterflies attracted to the new landscaping. The project became her living memorial. Watson added hanging butterfly wind chimes in her memory.

Homeowners undertaking a similar landscape makeover can review the San Diego County Water Authority’s “Happy 100” plant list to choose annuals, perennials, groundcovers, shrubs, and trees that provide color and thrive in our climate and soils with a minimal amount of irrigation. Find the list on the Water Authority website.

The finished Emerald Heights HOA landscape makeover. Photo: Vallecitos Water District

Emerald Heights HOA Benefits From Rebates and Assistance

June 17, 2026/in Features, WaterSmart Living /by Gayle Falkenthal

The Emerald Heights Homeowners Association in San Marcos joins the growing list of homeowners’ associations (HOAs) benefitting from available incentives and rebates, allowing them to convert their nonfunctional turf into a sustainable landscape.

Through a partnership between the County’s Watershed Protection Program, the San Diego County Water Authority, and the Metropolitan Water District, residences and businesses in unincorporated areas of San Diego County are eligible for enhanced water-use efficiency rebates for turf replacement.

The Emerald Heights HOA landscaping before the redesign and replacement of non-functional turf. Photo: Vallecitos Water District

The County provides a Landscape Optimization Service (LOS) offering technical assistance to owners of large-scale landscaping projects. The program helps applicants, such as HOAs and commercial properties, navigate requirements and maximize their rebate eligibility.

Approved commercial landscaping companies assist customers with their turf renovation projects and assist with rebate eligibility and processing.

See the Emerald Heights HOA transformation.

Many HOAs, including Emerald Heights, have existing landscaping designed 20 to 30 years ago that no longer serves their current needs and are ready for upgrades. But most HOAs are run by residents who live in the complex, who may not have the time or expertise to undertake the complexity of these large projects.

California’s Assembly Bill 1572 (AB 1572) prohibits the use of potable water for irrigating non-functional turf on commercial, industrial, and institutional properties, and common areas of homeowners’ associations (HOAs). Non-functional turf is defined as turf not being actively used for recreational activities, community events, or play areas for pets and children.

Turf can still be part of a landscape design where it supports activities like play areas for kids and pets or recreational use. Photo: Vallecitos Water District

Tony Gonzalez, Account Manager at O’Connell Landscaping, explains that many HOAs, including Emerald Heights, have large areas of non-functional turf.

The new landscape design replaced turf areas with low-water-use plants and a functional dry river bed feature. “It’s a nice aesthetic look,” said Gonzalez.

As non-functional turf was replaced with large shrubs, 500 sprinkler heads were replaced with drip irrigation to improve watering efficiency.

“When you do a turf conversion, and you install drought-tolerant plants, you’re going from watering grass five to seven days a week to maybe two to three days a week,” notes Gonzalez.

“Grass needs more frequent irrigation due to its shallow roots, while water-wise plants have deep roots that need infrequent but deep watering, which can make a difference in water management.”

Residents Reap Multiple Benefits

Riverbed features and new plants offer benefits to the Emerald Heights HOA. Photo: Vallecitos Water District

“Over the past decade, we have completed several turf conversion projects at Emerald Heights, removing most of our grass from medians and common areas and significantly reducing overall water use,” said Don Cannon, Emerald Heights HOA Landscape Chairman.

“The rebate programs have made a real difference. Without them, we likely would not have been able to take on this level of change. We appreciate the support and remain committed to doing our part to use water wisely.”

Sustainable landscapes provide multiple benefits, including enhancing habitat with plants that invite and feed pollinators, increasing stormwater retention, and decrease stormwater run-off.

Catherine Spence and her husband David are the 2025 winners of the Otay Water District Watersmart Landscape Contest. Photo: Otay Water District

WaterSmart Landscape Makeover Contest Open for 2026 Entries

February 3, 2026/in Features, WaterSmart Living /by Gayle Falkenthal

The popular WaterSmart Landscape Makeover annual competition is now open for 2026 entries. The contest highlights residential landscaping, with nonfunctional grass areas transformed into flourishing, colorful, water-smart landscapes.

Contest judges look for winners who represent the best in landscaping makeover projects from 12 participating San Diego County water agencies.

Karen Fleck and Tom Clarke created a livable space that uses less water. Their landscape project won the 2025 Padre Dam Municipal Water District landscape contest. Photo: Padre Dam Municipal Water District

Winning entrants feature unique approaches to their landscape projects. They demonstrate the wide range of options for creating lush, beautiful landscapes that rely more on native plants and less on large areas of thirsty grass.

Entries are judged on overall attractiveness, efficient irrigation methods, design, and appropriate plant selection and maintenance. The creative results and personal stories help inform and inspire other homeowners to consider their own new yard designs.

Cooler Winter Months Perfect Time for Landscape Updates

Award-winning landscape projects offer inspiration to other homeowners pursuing their own landscape makeovers. Photo: Olivenhain Municipal Water District

“The cooler winter months are the ideal time to make changes to your landscaping,” said Water Authority Senior Water Resources Specialist Debby Dunn. “Take advantage of our ongoing educational programs and rebates to create your own water-wise wonderland.

“To help choose the plants that best fit your style and climate, check out the Water Authority’s Nifty 50 and Happy 100 plant lists. These lists can help everyone create beautiful, lush, colorful, thriving landscapes filled with birds, bees, and butterflies.”

Which Agencies Are Participating In 2026?

Low-water plants, improved irrigation technologies, and WaterSmart classes reduce energy use, protect natural resources, and create beautiful outdoor living spaces. Photo: Vista Irrigation District

Participating agencies in 2026 include the cities of Escondido and Oceanside, Helix Water District, Olivenhain Municipal Water District, Otay Water District, Padre Dam Municipal Water District, Rincon Del Diablo Water District, San Dieguito Water District, Sweetwater Authority, Vallecitos Water District, and Vista Irrigation District.

Each agency winner receives a $250 gift certificate and public recognition for their efforts. Homeowners may also be eligible for turf removal rebates and additional incentives, which can help defray project costs. Applications must be complete and approved prior to beginning your landscape work.

This year’s contest deadline for all participating agencies is Friday, May 8, 2026. Homeowners may submit their entry online or through their participating agency. This is where you pay your water bill. You must be a resident within agency boundaries to participate.

Find the application for your participating water agency here, or on your agency’s website.

WaterSmart Landscaping Saves Estimated 36 Million Gallons Annually

The beautiful Fletcher Hills yard filled with native plants is the winner of the Helix Water District 2025 WaterSmart Landscape Contest. Photo: Helix Water District

Outdoor water use accounts for 62% of San Diego County’s water consumption, mainly for landscape irrigation. Yards with a lot of grass can greatly increase overall water consumption.

Conservation education efforts, including the WaterSmart Landscape Contest, offer ways to create landscapes tailored to your favorite activities, incorporating the needs of children, pets, accessible areas, pollinators, and specialty gardens.

Self-Study Landscape Makeover Video Series Offered by Water Authority

The Water Authority offers free options to help homeowners plan their makeovers. Homeowners can get started by viewing step-by-step videos on the Water Authority YouTube channel.

Additional online resources include Guides and Surveys that cover a wide range of topics, including efficient irrigation, water-wise plants, landscape design, healthy soil, finding and fixing leaks, landscape maintenance, and more.

Each winner will receive a $250 gift certificate and recognition in the appropriate agency’s newsletter, on their website, and other promotional materials.

Whittier School landscaping after its makeover. Photo: Courtesy Whittier School landscape project

Whittier School Landscape Project Transforms Neighborhood

January 15, 2026/in Features /by Gayle Falkenthal

The successful collaboration between the San Diego County Water Authority and the Whittier School in Clairemont to update the school’s landscaping delivered unexpected benefits to the neighborhood.

Senior Water Resources Specialist Debby Dunn says the Whittier School project was an ideal candidate for the Water Authority’s grant-funded Direct Installation Landscape Program. It met the pilot program’s goals, including its visible location along busy Clairemont Drive in a disadvantaged neighborhood.

Seven commercial projects were funded through the program.

Collaboration Delivers Bonus Results

Whittier School principal Kerie Sanders and Associate Principal Christopher Barrera are pleased with the results of the landscaping project. Photo: Courtesy Whittier School

Whittier School is a specialized K-12 school for students with high behavioral needs not being met at their neighborhood schools. “We are the school in the entire district that receives those students to work on some of those adaptive or transitional skills here, so that they can transition back to a comprehensive education site and move toward independence,” explained Associate Principal Christopher Barrera.

Andrea Eaton, Maintenance Planning Senior Coordinator for the San Diego Unified School District, and Kerie Sanders, Whittier School principal, said the school landscaping had deteriorated and was starting to affect school operations.

Whittier School landscaping before its makeover. Photo: Courtesy Whittier School

Sanders said staff conduct tours for parents who want to place their children at Whittier School. Some were discouraged by the school’s run-down appearance. “They looked around and thought ‘wow, people don’t care,’ and it’s not true,” said Sanders.

The impression of the undesirable landscape extended into the neighborhood. “The community thought Whittier was an abandoned school,” said Sanders. It led to neglect, including littering, forcing school employees to clean it all up.

Design Inclusivity Featured in Whittier School Landscape Project

Contractor EcoTech Services worked with Whittier School leaders to minimize disruption for students. Photo: Courtesy Whittier School

District and school representatives worked with the Water Authority and their contractor, EcoTech Services, to plan and install the new landscaping in advance of the school district’s planned modernization effort at Whittier School. Barrera praised the collaborative effort to make the project a reality.

The unique needs of the Whittier School’s students required special accommodations by contractor EcoTech during installation. The EcoTech field technicians expressed how they had a really big love for this project,” said Sanders.

“It was pretty cool to see the inclusivity in the design side. The construction team was mindful about the equipment they were using at certain times where the students are passing through that space,” said Sanders of Eco-Tech’s awareness of student sensitivities. “You don’t see that type of consideration every day.”

New Landscaping Improves Learning Environment

New trees and pollinator-friendly plants create a fresh environment for wildlife, for school staff and students, and for the Clairemont neighborhood. Photo: Courtesy Whittier School

The finished project includes a walking path designed specifically for the students. New trees and plants beautified the learning environment for students, the workplace for staff, and the school’s reputation in the neighborhood. Sanders said neighbors are treating the property with a new, respectful attitude.

To use water more efficiently, the irrigation system was updated with more efficient sprinkler heads, and a previously undetected water leak was discovered and repaired.

Sanders said Whittier School now looks loved and cared for as a true reflection of its mission. “How our school presents itself is how we care about our kids. Now, when parents pull up into the driveway to pick up their kids or come for events or meetings, our school aligns with how we care about the kids in our school. It seems like an outside manifestation of the work that’s happening on the inside, too.

“I am very, very grateful to the team that gifted us all of this, and we’re working every day inside to make it right and live up to the beauty that’s on the outside,” said Sanders.

Assembly Bill 1572 and Nonfunctional Turf

In an effort to conserve water and promote sustainable landscaping, California has enacted Assembly Bill 1572 (AB 1572), which prohibits the use of potable water to irrigate nonfunctional turf on specific property types, including commercial, industrial, and institutional properties, and common areas of homeowners’ associations.

Signed into law in 2023, it begins to take effect for different property categories from 2027 through 2031.

A variety of helpful programs and rebates are still available to help other commercial, industrial, and institutional landscapes meet the State of California’s new non-functional turf regulations (AB1572). Photo: Courtesy Whittier School

Nonfunctional turf is grass that serves only an aesthetic purpose and is not used for recreation. Examples include grass in center medians and parking lots, decorative landscaping, and other uses for aesthetic purposes.

Functional turf is grass that serves a useful purpose beyond just looking nice. It is turf actively used for recreation, sports, or community events where people (or sometimes animals) walk, play, or gather.

Dunn said a variety of helpful programs and rebates are still available to help other commercial, industrial, and institutional landscapes meet the State of California’s new non-functional turf regulations (AB1572), including:

Turf Replacement Rebate of $4/square foot. For details, visit SoCalWaterSmart.com
Selection of Water Smart plants with the Water Authority’s Nifty 50 and Happy 100 Plant Lists. SDCWA.org/conservation

For more information about the new regulations and tools and programs to help affected businesses and organizations comply, contact Debby Dunn at or 858-522-6745.

Rainwater Harvesting Workshops Begin September 27 in Lakeside

September 11, 2025/in Features, Supply & Demand, WaterSmart Living /by Gayle Falkenthal

The County of San Diego’s Waterscape Rebate Program will host rainwater harvesting workshops throughout the fall months of 2025. It’s an ideal time for homeowners to explore their options for water-saving improvements that also benefit the San Diego region’s watershed.

The first rainwater harvesting workshop scheduled for Fall 2025 takes place on Saturday, September 27, 2025, at 10 a.m. at the Lakeside Library, 12428 Woodside Ave, Lakeside.

As more rainwater harvesting workshops are scheduled, they will be listed on the County of San Diego’s Rainwater Harvesting webpage here. For more information, email .

Rebates For Water-Saving Improvements

Workshops can help San Diego County residents, businesses, and agricultural producers get cash rebates for water-saving improvements like efficient landscaping and irrigation upgrades. Photo: County of San Diego

The Waterscape Rebate Program helps San Diego County residents, businesses, and agricultural producers get cash rebates for water-saving improvements like efficient landscaping and irrigation upgrades.

The County of San Diego Watershed Protection Program (WPP) is dedicated to protecting the environment by preventing pollutants from entering local waterways. Funding the rebate program is one of many strategies for protecting water quality in our region.

When businesses and households make changes to reduce water use and use rainwater in their landscapes, we preserve healthy, safe waterways, more reliable water supplies, and can achieve costs savings at the same time.

If you live in unincorporated San Diego AND receive your water from the San Diego County Water Authority and their member agencies, you are eligible for ALL rebates listed under the County program.

If you live in an incorporated city, including the City of San Diego, there are numerous rebates available for residents. Visit SoCal WaterSmart, the City of San Diego’s rebate page, or your local water agency’s website to learn more. Not sure who your water agency is? Find your water district here.

The Watershed Protection Program partners with Environmental Incentives to manage and distribute rebates to program participants. Other rebates are offered and distributed by program partners, the San Diego County Water Authority and Metropolitan Water District of Southern California (through SoCal Water$mart).

The Waterscape Rebate Program supports a wide range of yard sizes and home setups. While using a contractor is not required, your project must follow all program requirements to qualify for a rebate.

Reduce Water Use, Save Money and Environment

Learning how to reduce your water use benefits your wallet along with the watershed. Photo: County of San Diego

During San Diego County’s limited periods of rainfall, any rainwater captured from your roof and property saves money. It also helps the region maintain its water supplies.

Workshops introduce residents to several beautiful, efficient ways to save rainwater. In addition to rain barrels, directing downspouts to fill containers lets you choose how to use the rainwater you capture. The overflow should empty onto your yard or a landscape feature to infiltrate the excess flow into the soil. Rain chains can assist with this.

By using a rain barrel, San Diegans can collect water for later use, reduce runoff to the ocean, and save money on their water bill. Reducing runoff from driveways, streets, and sidewalks also keeps harmful pollutants from reaching beaches and waterways. Instead, we can redirect fresh rainwater to our plants that need it most.

Just one inch of rain yields 600 gallons per 1000 sq. ft. of roof space, depending on your roof configuration. That’s a lot of free, fresh water for San Diegans to divert and help their plants thrive. In addition to diverting rainwater, the rain barrels provided can store up to 50 gallons of rainwater for later use in a mosquito-proof container.

The County is committed to protecting the water quality in the region’s creeks, streams, and coastal areas. Runoff from irrigation, storms, and even faulty septic systems can bring pollutants to our waterways and threaten public health.

How Rain Barrel Rebates Work

After you purchase items eligible for rebates and have installed them, you can apply for rebates. Current rain barrel rebates are $35 and limited to two per household for most San Diego County residents. You can submit for multiple projects. Learn more at SoCal Water Smart.

For additional details on conservation rebate programs and to order rain barrels, visit the Solana Center For Environmental Innovation website for more information on rebate programs and to order rain barrels.

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.

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.

Rain Barrel Rebates Timed for Rainy Season

November 1, 2023/in Home Headline, Media Coverage, San Diego County /by Mike Lee /Water News Network Mentioned: San Diego County Water Authority

With climatologists predicting the potential for above-average precipitation in the months ahead due to the El Niño weather phenomenon, it’s an ideal time to take advantage of the County of San Diego’s upcoming rainwater harvesting workshops and rain barrel rebates.

The County’s Waterscape Rebate Program will host free rainwater harvesting workshops in Fall and Winter 2023.

Full Story

Rain barrels can capture rainfall for irrigation in your garden. Photo: National Audubon Society rain barrel rebates

Rain Barrel Rebates Timed for Rainy Season

November 1, 2023/in Features, WaterSmart Living /by Gayle Falkenthal

With climatologists predicting the potential for above-average precipitation in the months ahead due to the El Niño weather phenomenon, it’s an ideal time to take advantage of the County of San Diego’s upcoming rainwater harvesting workshops and rain barrel rebates.

The County’s Waterscape Rebate Program will host free rainwater harvesting workshops in Fall and Winter 2023. Workshops help residents learn how to capture rainwater to supplement their irrigation needs, save money on water bills, and protect our region’s environment by preventing pollutants from spilling into regional watersheds.

The County of San Diego holds free rain barrel rebate workshops at different locations. Use the QR Code for the latest schedule. Photo: County of San Diego

The next scheduled workshop is Wednesday, November 8, at 1 p.m. at Tractor Supply, 27444 Valley Center Road. Future workshops will be listed on the County of San Diego Waterscape Rebate Program website.

At the end of the workshop, residents who live in unincorporated areas of San Diego County may be eligible to receive a free rain barrel. Participants in incorporated areas can check their rebate eligibility on the San Diego County website’s interactive map.

The County of San Diego Watershed Protection Program (WPP) partners with the San Diego County Water Authority and Metropolitan Water District of Southern California (through SoCal WaterSmart) and can assist residents in determining which program benefits are available.

Capture rainwater

During San Diego County’s limited periods of rainfall, any rainwater captured from your roof and property saves money. It also helps the region maintain its water supplies.

Directing downspouts into water-collecting features in your landscaping makes use of rainfall. Photo: County of San Diego

Workshops introduce residents to several beautiful, efficient ways to save rainwater. In addition to rain barrels, directing downspouts to fill containers lets you choose how to use the rainwater you capture. The overflow should empty onto your yard or a landscape feature to infiltrate the excess flow into the soil. Rain chains can assist with this.

Protecting water quality in watersheds

The Countyl of San Diego is committed to protecting the water quality in county creeks, streams, and coastal areas. Runoff from irrigation, storms, and even faulty septic systems can bring pollutants to county waterways and threaten public health.

When businesses and households make changes to reduce water use and use rainwater in their landscapes, it helps preserve healthy, safe waterways and more reliable water supplies.

How rain barrel rebates work

After buying rain-saving containers or other items eligible for rebates, and have installed them, residents can apply for rebates. Current rain barrel rebates are $35 and are limited to two per household for most San Diego County residents. Multiple projects are eligible. Details at: Socal WaterSmart.

Rain barrels conserve water for WaterSmart landscape maintenance

Making use of rain barrels is good for the environment and good for your household budget. Photo: National Audubon Society

Whether or not El Niño results in increased rainfall, even light rain can provide enough water for later use. A roof with a 2,000-square-foot surface area can capture 300 gallons from only a quarter inch of rain.

Stored water can be released gradually into landscaping between winter rainstorms, building up the soil sponge and ensuring that native plants get adequate water during the winter months when they need it most. If additional water is needed in the summer, captured and stored water during the winter could be used as supplemental irrigation.

The Solana Center For Environmental Innovation website has additional information on rain barrels and rebate programs.

Dean Williams replace his grass with colorful drought tolerant plants. His landscape makeover won first place. Photo: Vallecitos Water District 2023

Vallecitos Water District 2023 Landscape Makeover Winners Find Inspiration

August 7, 2023/in Features, WaterSmart Living /by Gayle Falkenthal

Three resourceful homeowners took advantage of free resources, including design and plant selection advice, to create beautiful drought-tolerant landscapes. Their projects were named winners of the 2023 Vallecitos Water District Landscape Makeover Contest.

Video features the three winning projects

Dean Williams: Drab To Delightful

Carlsbad homeowner Dean Williams and his wife didn’t like their existing landscaping.

“It wasn’t a garden, it was a yard,” recalls Williams.

In 2020, Williams found resources on the Vallecitos Water District website for saving water by redesigning your landscaping. The results won first place in the 2023 landscape makeover contest.

Dean Williams’ home after completing his landscape makeover. Photo: Vallecitos Water District

“There are so many resources. The first step was to take some landscape classes offered through the San Diego County Water Authority, find out the process and what I needed to do,” said Williams.

After removing existing turf using the sheet mulching method to create healthy soil, he planned a colorful plant palette to replace his grass.

Dean Williams’ home before his winning landscape makeover. Photo: Vallecitos Water District

“One of the big things I wanted to change was to go from a drab landscape to having some variety by using different textures on the plants, different flowers, different colors, and complementing colors,” said Williams, who used purple and yellow as the primary landscape colors. “I tried to have an interesting landscape pleasing to the eye.”

The colorful redesign saves water and costs. Photo: Vallecitos Water District

Williams said the benefit of installing drip irrigation and a smart controller was significant water and cost savings.

“We’ve noticed over that our water use and bills have gone slowly down,” he said.

Lessons learned

Williams said the “do it yourself” project offered many lessons learned, including watering too often.

“Drought-tolerant plants don’t do well in wet soil,” said Williams.

Williams encourages other homeowners to tap into all the available resources through the Vallecitos Water District, Water Authority, City of Carlsbad, and others for advice and possible rebates to offset their investment.

“It just pays in more ways than one to change your landscape. “I want to thank Vallecitos Water District for selecting us so we can showcase our landscape transformation,” said Williams.

Dean Williams took advantage of free resources offered by the Vallecitos Water District and San Diego County Water Authority. Photo: Vallecitos Water District

Donald De Tar: DIY project earns second place

Donald De Tar’s home after completing his landscape makeover. Photo: Vallecitos Water District

Donald De Tar learned about the annual Landscape Makeover Contest through the Palomar Cactus and Succulent Society. “So, we decided on a lark to enter,” said De Tar.

His Woodlawn Park area home in San Marcos is dedicated to succulents, cactus, and drought-tolerant plants.

De Tar says it not only saves water but it also saves time spent mowing, fertilizing, and trimming grass. It’s also a lot of fun.

Donald De Tar’s home before his landscape makeover. Photo: Vallecitos Water District

De Tar is proud of the budget-friendly approach to his landscaping.

“I did it on a very inexpensive budget,” said De Tar. “It doesn’t have to be super expensive, especially if you join an organization like the Palomar Cactus and Succulent Society. It can be almost free, especially if you’re doing the work yourself.”

De Tar learned about rebate programs through the Vallecitos Water District, and he successfully applied for rebates to offset costs. “Over time, we did the whole yard, and the backyards and side yards have been transformed.”

I’m very appreciative of the Vallecitos contest,” said De Tar. “I like the fact that Vallecitos is involved in the community and promotes these kinds of contests.”

Mily Le Wins Third Place

The results of Mily Le’s landscape makeover, which won second place. Photo: Vallecitos Water District

Third place went to longtime San Marcos homeowner Mily Le. She learned about the annual landscape contest through the Vallecitos Water District’s customer newsletter, “Between The Pipes.”

Le visited the lawn replacement program website and learned how to remove her regional grass safely and effectively. She got her design laid out and purchased plants from her local nursery.

Mily Le's home before her landscape makeover. Photo: Vallecitos Water District 2023

The Mily Le home before her landscape makeover. Photo: Vallecitos Water District

As a result, Le says she saves about 30% of her water consumption after replacing her lawn. She says she learned from a neighbor’s experience about researching the eventual size of plants before planting them.

“(My neighbor) did not look it up,” she said. “She had to demolish the front yard, so I took that lesson.”

Le suggests lots of advance planning with your layout. “I’m glad I did it. I think it’s a successful project,” said Le.

For rebates, classes, and water-saving tips: sdcwa.org/your-water/conservation/.

(Editor’s note: The Vallecitos Water District is one of the San Diego County Water Authority’s 24 member agencies that deliver water across the metropolitan San Diego region.)

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