EVERETT, Wa. - The City of Seattle Public Utilities has announced their decision to implement phase one of the 2000 Water Shortage Contingency Plan, an Advisory Stage which is designed to inform the public of a possible water shortage in Seattle.

The Washington Association of Landscape Professionals, a membership organization representing Landscape Installation, Irrigation and Maintenance Contractors, Landscape Architects and Designers, Horticultural Consultants and Educators, and Wholesale Suppliers to the Landscape and Irrigation industry with six regional chapters in the State of Washington offers the following advice:

- Get a soil core sample. The results of a soil core sample will assist you in taking the proper steps to improve your soils for a healthy landscape.

- Install a water efficient irrigation system. The use of drip or xeriscaping irrigation can also be utilized for water efficiency.

- Plant the right plants in the right place.

- Grass cycling or Mulch-Mowing can assist in eliminating waste of grass clippings and will recycle those clippings back into the lawn.

- Follow an efficient watering schedule that meets the needs for a healthy landscape.

For more information call the WALP office at 800-833-2186 or visit www.walp.org.