February 7, 2023 – Four Rowland Water District (RWD) customers will receive complimentary front yard makeovers under the first year of a program aimed at helping homeowners trade grass for water-wise landscaping.
RWD’s Front Yard Landscape Makeover Program, which has an annual budget of $35,000, funds the cost of plants, materials and labor at the selected homes. The program is funded by revenue from cell phone tower leases on District property.
“With up to 70% of a home’s water consumption going to the outdoors, it’s critical that we continue to replace turf with a landscape more suited to Southern California’s climate,” RWD General Manager Tom Coleman said. “This program helps demonstrate that drought-tolerant gardens are colorful, beautiful and easy to maintain.”
The selected customers have a choice of three garden styles – Mediterranean, pollinator or succulent. The work is performed by RWD staff and contractors, and winners must agree to maintain the landscaping for at least three years. After installation, the customers’ accounts will be monitored for a year to determine the amount of water and money saved.
This year, the selected customers are Luke C. of Hacienda Heights, Rafael and Silvia in La Puente, and Zhi Z. and Trina V., who live in Rowland Heights. All participants chose the succulent style for their landscaping makeover.
Applications are reviewed on a first-come, first-served basis subject to availability of funds; low-income customers receive priority consideration. RWD inspects the yards before selection to determine eligibility, site-specific requirements and project planning.
Stay tuned for next year’s contest! Visit rwd.org.