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Addressing the Needs of a Thirsty California08-13-15 | News

Addressing the Needs of a Thirsty California
San Diego Landscape Water Conference

Zoen Baldwin, vice president of Heritage Landscape Services, spoke about "Bernardo Greens to Bernardo Browns: A Turf Replacement Case Study," at San Diego Landscape Water Conference held at SDG&E Energy Innovation Center on August 6.
Photo: Larry Shield

For the past few years California has had little precipitation, barely any snowfall in the Sierra Nevadas and record hot temperatures. As a result, the state is facing a water crisis. On August 6 landscape professionals gathered at SDG&E Energy Innovation Center for the San Diego Landscape Water Conference.

According to Zoen Baldwin, vice president of Heritage Landscape Services, the 24 water district members of San Diego County have adopted Level 3 restrictions. Each site is different in regards to length of irrigation, but they're limited to twice per week.

"We focus primarily on managing home owner associations and dealing with restrictions," said Baldwin. "Each landscape is different and it depends on the site."

Baldwin said having a pipeline transport water through several states may be a good conversation piece, but inevitably it would create other issues. Ecosystems would be disturbed and it may not currently be cost-effective.

"Today the infrastructure is sufficient, but as we grow as a population, we'll need more infrastructure improvements," said Baldwin. "There has to be a balance between water usage and appeal of the landscape. What expectations do the people have about their environment and how can we help?"

Stacey Sturnot, branch manager of ValleyCrest Landscape Maintenance in San Marcos said she tries to convince clients about smart ways to use water, so they can take care of their landscape investment.

"There's been a movement to get rid of turf and replace it with drought tolerant plant materials," said Sturnot. "San Diego County has offered a rebate incentive of $2.25 per square foot for turf removal."

Sturnot said her company's neighbor, West Coast Turf has been adapting with the times as they're developing a more drought-tolerant Buffalograss. Companies like Rainbird, Irritrol and the Toro Co. are manufacturing nozzles and SMART controllers, which save water. Landscape designers are available for suggestions on how to save money on water bills.