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But we are proud to say that J Smith contributed 12 entries already.
The Hidden Cost of Turf Removal: Why Going Grass-Free Isn’t Always Greener Turfgrass removal programs have gained traction in recent years as the need for water conservation has grown, especially in arid and drought-prone areas of the country. State agencies, utilities, and even homeowners’ associations encourage the replacement of traditional lawns with xeric landscapes, artificial […]
“I just spent $15,000 on my new landscape to save $40 a month on my water bill!” Seem efficient to you? It’s a question worth asking, especially as more communities across the country are encouraged to change their landscapes in pursuit of water conservation. While these landscape transformations may deliver some water savings, they often […]
As climate extremes become the new “normal”, cities must do more than just make space for people—they need to absorb water, heat, and unexpected environmental conditions. With worsening floods, longer droughts, and wildfires creeping into urban neighborhoods (my heart went out to Los Angeles last summer!), traditional infrastructure just isn’t cutting it anymore. That’s where […]
Turfgrass is often criticized in water conservation conversations. I’ve seen it everywhere from media headlines to municipal rebate programs and the message is clear. If you want to save water, rip out your lawn. But is grass really the villain it’s made out to be? Spoiler alert…..it’s not. In fact, when managed properly, your lawn […]
For many ornamental landscapes, the easiest path to water savings isn’t the addition of new irrigation technologies or the removal of turfgrass—it’s simply fixing what’s already there. Studies have shown that 30-60% of irrigation water is wasted, often due to leaks, broken sprinkler heads, poor pressure regulation, or improper irrigation scheduling (Kjelgren et al., 2000; […]
Parks, green spaces, and urban landscapes are not just pretty or pleasing to the eye, they are vital to health and community well-being. We know, for example, that people living near green spaces have a 55% lower risk of developing psychiatric disorders like stress, anxiety, and substance abuse (Mulhern, 2020). Urban parks also help the environment by removing up […]
Summer temperatures in the United States have been getting hotter since 1970 with city temperatures increasing more quickly than adjacent rural areas. And since 80% of the U.S. population lives in cities, this trend affects the majority of Americans (Climate Central, 2014). Well-planned, climate-resilient landscapes not only provide aesthetic and recreational benefits but can also […]
During the 2025 legislative calendar a bill in Colorado was introduced to limit the amount of turf that can be installed on multi-dwelling and residential property. The legislation “Limit Turf in New Residential Development” (HB 1113) was introduced by Senator Dylan Roberts, Representative Karen McCormick and Representative Lesley Smith on January 27th and referred […]
During the 2025 legislative calendar a bill to address “Water Wise Landscaping “ (SB 305) was introduced by Senator Keven Stratton on February 19th and referred to Utah State Senate Committee on Natural Resources, Agriculture and Environment. The bill would have made amendments to existing law that does not permit turf to account for […]
In recent years, several municipalities and states have proposed or enacted legislation aimed at reducing the use of turfgrass in residential landscapes. These laws are often driven by environmental concerns such as water conservation, reduction of chemical fertilizers, and the promotion of biodiversity. But what does this mean for homeowners? The Financial Burden: Installation Costs: […]
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