Landscape Architect Articles

CLCA‚Äö?Ñ????ë?¬•s Guest Commentary06-26-09 | News

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By Barbara Landrith, Outreach Specialist, California Landscape Contractors Association

The shortage of water is not only a big problem in California but also worldwide. According to the United Nations, nearly two thirds of the world?EUR??,,????'?????<

The California Landscape Contractors Association (CLCA) applauds Senator Benjamin Nelson (D-Neb.) and Dianne Feinstein (D-Calif.) for their efforts to introduce a resolution recognizing July as Smart Irrigation Month. There are many new advances in irrigation technology including smart controllers, weather monitors, highly efficient rotating sprinklers and more, which are easy to install and which are very effective in reducing landscape water usage. Landscape is such an important place to emphasize water savings because many people over-water their landscapes by over 50 percent. This resolution also supports the State of California?EUR??,,????'?????<

CLCA believes that Smart Irrigation Month will help to educate the public about the importance of water, landscape water savings and how the public can help protect our environment while reducing its outdoor water usage. Landscape is such an important part of any community. To halt outdoor watering is not the solution to water conservation. Landscape helps positively alter the environment, reduces carbon emissions, improves air quality, protects the land, provides food, creates oxygen and sustains life. Plants and trees are also food and shelter for surrounding wildlife and we are all connected.

There are many ways to reduce landscape water usage, including landscape water conservation programs like CLCA?EUR??,,????'?????<

Despite recent rainfall, California is facing its third year of continuous drought and dangerously low reserves. With significant increases in population and reduced resources from previous years, our current water needs are exceeding our supply. On February 27, Governor Schwarzenegger declared a statewide emergency due to drought and directed state government agencies to implement an emergency plan. The shortage of water is not only a big problem in California but also worldwide. According to the United Nations, nearly two thirds of the world?EUR??,,????'?????<

Right now we have a chance to make a difference and save our resources for the future. The extra attention Smart Irrigation Month will bring to such an important issue, will help create the necessary changes that need to happen to help our world conserve water. Proper planning, conservation and working together can help protect our land and resources creating a win/win for everyone.