UTAH DROUGHT

‘Localscapes’ can help your lawn be water-wise

Aug 4, 2021, 10:53 AM

localscapes demonstration...

An example of localscaping at the Jordan Valley Water Conservancy District. Photo: Mary Richards

WEST JORDAN, Utah — In this year of statewide drought, much has been said about turf buyback programs, ‘rip the strip,’ or getting ride of lawn and yards — but what about localscapes?

Recently, the governor outlined new strategies and plans to help the drought in a news conference from the Jordan Valley Water Conservancy District.

There on the property is an example of a localscape. Outreach coordinator Cynthia Bee says localscapes show how to make a lawn functional and water-wise at the same time.

Localscapes vs. xeriscapes

She says their focus groups showed some confusion over the definition of xeriscaping, and even water-wise lawns. Some people believe xeriscaping must include all rocks, or all wood chips, or that it turns into a big weed patch. People didn’t like something that looked messy.

Bee said the better term and better solution is ‘localscapes,’ because it takes what works for your specific area and your specific needs. The general concept revolves around usable open space in the middle, then planting beds around the edges.

And it does not have to be “all or nothing” thinking.

As little or as much green space as you want

“Some people want no lawn, so they can use gravel or pavers in that open shape. But we don’t want to shame people who still want some lawn, but don’t need it in their park strip or side yard or that back corner they only go to while mowing.”

She says there can be timed sprinklers on the area of lawn, then drip irrigation in the bushes and trees in the planting beds to prevent overwatering.

“Using water as a tool allows us to use water to control growth in our landscapes as well,” she said.

And she knows that greenery and trees are important for cities and neighborhoods for their cooling effects and beauty.

Bee says neighbors are not likely to copy an example if they don’t like how it looks. People also avoid doing something that takes too much maintenance.

Therefore, you can try a localscapes class through the USU Extension classes, or by going to the website to find the right steps for your soil and climate and water type. Contractors and landscape architects can also help, for those who want to go that route.

“That’s why we called it localscapes. The best advice for what you need to do is closer to you,” she said.

We want to hear from you.

Have a story idea or tip? Send it to the KSL NewsRadio team here.

Utah Drought

great salt lake shoreline...

Kira Hoffelmeyer

Great Salt Lake expected to rise more this spring; trust unveils 5-year plan to keep it going

Some of the Great Salt Lake's water levels are already high before this year's above-normal collection even melts.

4 days ago

Noah Pirkle snowshoes by the Mill B trailhead in Big Cottonwood Canyon, utah snowpack looking good...

Becky Bruce

Northern Utah snowpack, water in good shape ahead of spring runoff

The director of the Utah Division of Water Resources says the Utah snowpack "has been consistently above normal since the beginning of February."

11 days ago

Noah Pirkle snowshoes by the Mill B trailhead in Big Cottonwood Canyon, utah snowpack looking good...

Carter Williams

Comparing Utah’s snowpack this winter with the rest of the West

Utah's mountains gained 12.9 inches of snow water equivalent, otherwise known as snowpack, between the season start on Dec. 1 to its end on Thursday

14 days ago

Fields in Utah County, near Spanish Fork, on Tuesday, Jan. 30, 2024....

Adam Small

Utah Legislature passes criticized, generational out-of-state water bill

The bill creates a new council with authority to negotiate with nearby states to get more water into Utah.

18 days ago

great salt lake shown, a bill to preserve the lake has passed...

Peter Johnston

Resolution asks municipalities to boost water conservation efforts

A new resolution aims to promote conservation efforts in cities and counties to reduce the impact on farmers.

29 days ago

Brine shrimp...

Amie Schaeffer

Brine shrimp cyst collection at Great Salt Lake up over 50%. Is the berm to thank?

About 29 million pounds of brine shrimp cysts were harvested at the lake this past season, a huge increase from the year before.

1 month ago

Sponsored Articles

Mother and cute toddler child in a little fancy wooden cottage, reading a book, drinking tea and en...

Visit Bear Lake

How to find the best winter lodging in Bear Lake, Utah

Winter lodging in Bear Lake can be more limited than in the summer, but with some careful planning you can easily book your next winter trip.

Happy family in winter clothing at the ski resort, winter time, watching at mountains in front of t...

Visit Bear Lake

Ski more for less: Affordable ski resorts near Bear Lake, Utah

Plan your perfect ski getaway in Bear Lake this winter, with pristine slopes, affordable tickets, and breathtaking scenery.

front of the Butch Cassidy museum with a man in a cowboy hat standing in the doorway...

Bear Lake Convention and Visitors Bureau

Looking Back: The History of Bear Lake

The history of Bear Lake is full of fascinating stories. At over 250,000 years old, the lake has seen generations of people visit its shores.

silhouette of a family looking over a lake with a bird in the top corner flying...

Bear Lake Convention and Visitors Bureau

8 Fun Activities To Do in Bear Lake Without Getting in the Water

Bear Lake offers plenty of activities for the whole family to enjoy without having to get in the water. Catch 8 of our favorite activities.

Wellsville Mountains in the spring with a pond in the foreground...

Wasatch Property Management

Advantages of Renting Over Owning a Home

Renting allows you to enjoy luxury amenities and low maintenance without the long-term commitment and responsibilities of owning a home.

Clouds over a red rock vista in Hurricane, Utah...

Wasatch Property Management

Why Southern Utah is a Retirement Paradise

Retirement in southern Utah offers plenty of cultural and recreational opportunities. Find out all that this region has to offer.

‘Localscapes’ can help your lawn be water-wise