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Show Results of the Northern California Study for each residential unit are: % Savings $ Annual Savings Water 54% $ 28.37 Labor 25% $ 36.69 Fertilizer 61% $ 8.80 Fuel 44% $ 0.96 Herbicide 22% $ 0.18 Total $ 75.00 • 40 percent savings in water on average per home and business in Mesa, Arizona, that took advantage of a utility- sponsored rebate program begun in 1984 for installing water- efficient landscaping. Status Park City, Summit County, and Salt Lake City, Salt Lake County, are the only cities in Utah that have requirements for water conserving landscapes. Water- wise landscaping ordinances are currently being considered in Washington and Salt Lake counties where population growth in the near future is expected to increase water demand beyond available water supplies. The Extension Service in southern Nevada is conducting research to determine actual water use of selected woody trees, shrubs and ground covers that frequent desert landscapes compared to commonly chosen turf grasses. The Extension Service shares this information with landscape design, nursery and maintenance personnel as well as through the Master Gardener program. Pacific Homes, a residential development company based in Las Vegas, has specialized in building properties that look good and are inexpensive to maintain. This requires focusing on low- water use landscapes, including careful design, plant selections, proper irrigation systems construction installation and good irrigation management practices. In California the landscape and water industries are taking the initiative by being the bridge between business development and the environment. In doing so, they can create a broader based, healthier industry and environment that is good business for everyone. Santa Barbara, California, has sponsored an annual water- efficient landscape seminar every year since 1982 that attracts 300- 400 people each year. In addition, a plant tagging program in area nurseries has been implemented. A theme has been developed to promote " sustainable landscaping" to promote the efficient use of all resources in landscaping besides water. This includes natural pest control, composting and use of recycled materials. The results are: • Many nurseries now have a special section devoted to a wider variety of low- water use plants. • Many landscape professionals now advertise their expertise with water efficient landscapes and irrigation systems. |
