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Show JVWCD's non- intrusive approach can be seen in many of their recent water conservation programs. One of their first efforts to promote water conservation, the " Demonstration Gardens," opened in 1999. The gardens, which showcase low water use landscapes, replaced four acres of Kentucky bluegrass located in front of the Conservancy's office ( Israelson, 10/ 28/ 99). These gardens are made up of various types of landscapes, ranging from ones that use plants native to Utah to more traditional ones, that require less water than the typical Salt Lake Valley landscaping practices. Other programs that attempt to encourage water conservation practices are a part of a statewide effort advocated by former Governor Levitt under the umbrella of the " Slow the Flow" campaign ( Mohadjer, 12/ 8/ 03). These include water- wise landscaping classes, large water- user workshops, informational brochures, a low flush toilet program, and, beginning this summer, a program modeled after reality television which chronicles a family xeriscaping its lawn. The development of these programs follows a process in which Mohajer and several other administrators generate programs based on the costs of the program and the current programs already in place. These programs are then reviewed by a board of JVWCD administrators who look at the program budget in terms of other projects being considered. The process then takes the resulting ideas to another board representing the communities that JVWCD serves. This board looks at the proposed programs in light of their interests, including budget and community interests. Additionally, there is also a process of public input open to the general public. |