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Ditch Your Lawn: Water-Wise Yards Bloom
27 Jul
Summary
- Spokane homeowners are embracing water-efficient yards amid dry conditions.
- Xeriscaping and native plants reduce water use and maintenance needs.
- The SpokaneScape program has helped over 500 yards adopt water-wise designs.
In the Inland Northwest, the traditional green lawn is giving way to water-wise landscaping solutions. Rising temperatures and drier weather are prompting homeowners to reconsider their yards, with many seeking alternatives to traditional turf that require less irrigation.
The city's SpokaneScape program, initiated in 2018, has successfully guided over 500 homeowners in adopting more water-efficient yard designs. These converted yards are reportedly using approximately 15% less water than the residential average, highlighting the program's effectiveness.
Homeowners are motivated by both cost savings and reduced maintenance. Xeriscaping and native plants are easier to care for than lawns, which often struggle during intense summer heat and require frequent watering and mowing. This shift also eases the strain on local water supplies, a critical concern given the region's frequent drought emergencies.
Even small changes, such as replacing a portion of a lawn with drought-tolerant species, can make a meaningful difference in water conservation and contribute to a healthier ecosystem by providing habitats for pollinators and wildlife.
