Texas City Embraces Xeriscaping

In Midland, Texas, The Parks and Recreation Department is transforming parks to xeriscaping to conserve water as it prepares for another dry spring and summer. ''We're hoping some of these initiatives will open the eyes to our citizens of what can be done other than just green turf,'' said Tina Jauz, director of Community Services.

To start, grass will be replaced with more drought-friendly material at seven public areas that serve more of an aesthetic purpose than a recreational purpose, said Jauz, adding: Drip irrigation also will be installed on trees in those sectors to ensure the efficient use of any water that is still being utilized.

In cutting grass out of just seven small spots, Jauz said they anticipate saving $10,000 annually on mowing services. By curtailing the use of water, Jauz estimates they could save as much as $7,000 a year at each of the seven areas.

In a typical year, the city spends about $950,000 on water for its more than 1,300 acres of parks and open spaces, Deputy City Manager Tommy Hudson said.