As issues go, water is a huge one especially after so many years of drought! Some places are working on ways to cut their water usage so more water flows to the aquifer. One such place I visited, initially for birding, was Acacia Demonstrations Gardens in Henderson, Nevada. I wish I had my bicycle since the multi-use Harry Reid Union Pacific Railroad Trail was here too.

The Acacia Demonstration Gardens had various lawns and each with informative signs that explained why they suggested, for example, to use Bermuda grass rather than turf grass. Bermuda grass uses one-third the amount of water than turf grass! That’s important. Other information included drip irrigation versus sprinklers and how and when to use which one to create a water-efficient landscape. (It does drive me crazy when water is flowing down a street from any sprinkler or irrigation bib.)

With healthy gardens, more insects are attracted to it and they do their part to continue the breakdown and add nutrients to the soil. Sure, in some places you will have a patio, but you may decide it is not necessary to cover over the entire yard with patio tiles. You may find ideas to keep the remainder of your yard green. Maybe with a pollinator garden to attract hummingbirds and insects, while using minimal water, and make your yard colorful!

I enjoyed walking the gardens and reading the informative signs. There is a dog-walk area too. Plenty of birds were hiding in the trees once I started looking, plus I spent time watching a greater roadrunner scoot around the rocks and flowers! Fun!

Have you taken a close look at your backyard or nearby green space? Is water being used efficiently? If not, what could you do to minimize the amount of water being used so we do not waste such a precious natural resource? Anything you do will help. Thanks!