Photo of a turf replacement project designed to save water and combat future droughts and climate change.
New Direct Install Projects Will Provide Water Savings, Combat Future Droughts & Restore Natural Environments
SACRAMENTO, CA – To celebrate Earth Week, the Department of Water Resources (DWR) is rolling out a new program to work with local communities on multiple turf and landscape replacement projects that will save water and help combat against future droughts and climate change. What makes this innovative partnership unique is the focus on replacing turf at businesses and institutions rather than solely residential sites.
In collaboration with Watershed Progressive, DWR’s Turf Replacement Pilot Program provides direct assistance to replace ornamental turf with drought-tolerant and water-efficient landscaping in California’s frontline communities. Supported by the Budget Act of 2021, the program is investing $35 million in communities that are on the frontlines of climate change, lack reliable water supplies, and need support with restoring natural environments. The program will provide hands-on support with lawn removal and direct installation of water-wise alternatives for residential, commercial, and institutional landscapes at no additional cost.
The need for this program is highlighted by the conclusion of the recent snowpack season, with California having three consecutive years of near or above average wet years with regional disparities which were preceded by the three driest years on record.
“DWR is investing in California businesses and schools to help our communities become more water resilient in the face of climate uncertainty,” said DWR Director Karla Nemeth. “Replacing thirsty ornamental lawns helps ensure that water is available for critical indoor residential needs, manufacturing, agriculture, and the environment when dry conditions inevitably return.”
DWR plans to target up to five communities and a number of special project sites throughout the state for this pilot program, focusing on underrepresented and Tribal communities. Turf replacement projects are already underway in the Ventura community. For the special project sites, work has begun in Lee Vining in Mono County. Examples of projects currently planned include:
Regional Community Projects
- Ventura Unified School District: Landscape transformations for two elementary schools, a middle school, and headquarters building in the Ventura Unified School District will replace unused turf with beautiful, drought tolerant planting that will also help mitigate on-site flooding issues and provide enhanced spaces for students to enjoy.
- Camp Arnaz: Camp Arnaz located near Ojai serves as a primarily site for youth-serving nonprofits including the Girl Scouts and other community organizations. The property's front and back lawns will be converted to low-maintenance, climate-appropriate landscapes that can be used and enjoyed by the public and other groups visiting the site. The site has multiple micro-climates and is a critical watershed and wildlife crossing corridor.
Lee Vining – Community Demonstration Project
- Mono Basin Outdoor Education Center (OEC): The restoration taking place at the OEC will educate students about the benefits of water-wise landscaping in increasing water supply reliability and fire-resilience, while reducing heat stress and potential structural flooding. The completion of phase one included the removal of turf and installation of Oak trees. Phase two will involve working with the community for spring planting in 2025.
All projects, including those yet to be determined, are expected to be completed by 2027. With a focus on drought resilience across California, the Turf Replacement Pilot Program is looking to finalize its remaining regions and community demonstration projects.
This effort is a part of DWR’s Go Golden Initiative, which highlights the state’s partnerships to implement projects that address water conservation, well rehabilitation, wildlife protection, the restoration of the natural land around us, and the sustainability of groundwater basins across California lands.
Contact:
Jaden Torres, Public Affairs, Department of Water Resources
916-820-7796 | media@water.ca.gov