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Water Smart Landscaping
With the drought our region is experiencing, the associated watering restrictions, and the knowledge that we need to change our perspective on our irrigated areas, the City of Glenwood Springs Park’s Department has embarked on a plan to reduce our water use.
What are we doing to reduce water use in parks?
- Creating water budgets and comparing actual metered consumption against the legitimate outdoor water needs based on the landscape area.
- Following best practices and least-cost IRP (integrated resource planning) to help reduce water consumption.
- Only irrigating our turf areas and garden beds when necessary instead of "golf course watering".
- Reducing evapotranspiration loss by watering at night instead of during the heat of the day.
- Setting standards that must be met for landscaping design that utilize low-water and drought tolerant species.
- Replacing traditional bluegrass turf with native grasses and xeric plants when construction disturbance provides the opportunity for a "scape-over".
- Veltus Park demonstration garden (to be completed summer of 2023)
What can you do to reduce water use in your own yard?
- Water only at night, and try to avoid watering when its very windy.
- Use mulch and native or "near-native" ground cover to reduce water loss.
- Use creative hardscape designs to take up space (boulders, logs, dry streambeds, or artwork).
- If you are interested in learning more, Colorado State University has a very informative Water Wise Landscape Design Guide with tons of information on irrigation, water zones, and plant selection.
- Check out our Recommended Tree and Plant Guide and choose the right tree or plant for the right place.
- We have an expanded guide that includes trees and plants that may require more water as well as species that already grow here; and provides additional notes and suggestions.