Austinites could get up to $3,000 for switching to 'WaterWise' landscapes
Austinites who switch to more sustainable landscapes could be eligible for a rebate of up to $3,000 though Austin Water’s WaterWise Landscape Rebate Program.
AUSTIN (KXAN) -- Austinites who switch to more sustainable landscapes could be eligible for a rebate of up to $3,000 though Austin Water’s WaterWise Landscape Rebate Program.
Austin Water said in a release about the program that switching to a landscape that uses techniques to reduce or end the need for extra watering can help residents be more prepared for the damage summer heat can do to yards.
Austin Water said it offers rebates through the WaterWise Landscape Rebate Program for each of these measures to decrease outdoor irrigation:
- Adding compost and/or mulch to keep soil moist and prevent water loss from evaporation
- Changing irrigation heads to drip or low-flow nozzles
- Planting native or adaptive plants with lower water needs such as Texas sage, lantana, salvia, mountain laurel and agave plants
Those interested can apply online and send site plan measurements and photos of their current grass conditions. After removing the existing grass and planting new ones, final photos and receipts can be submitted to Austin Water.
Participants will be reimbursed $1 per square foot up to $3,000.
The water utility said that in addition to receiving a rebate for the cost of switching to a WaterWise landscape, people can also save money on their monthly water bills. According to Austin Water, turf grass typically needs 1 inch of water weekly in summer, while mature native beds may require only ½ to ¾ inch every other week. For instance, converting a 500-square-foot turf area, which requires 1,240 gallons monthly, to a WaterWise landscape could save up to 930 gallons monthly, leading to significant savings.
“This is a win-win opportunity for everyone to do their part to conserve water.” Kevin Kluge, Water Conservation Division Manager for Austin Water, said. “Austin remains in a drought and has had watering restrictions in effect since last August. Hot weather is just around the corner, and using drought-tolerant landscape principles helps the effort and extends our water supply.”
There is an online comprehensive Residential Conservation Rebates guide, in English and Spanish for people interested in the program. It highlights the WaterWise Landscape program and other initiatives that support water conservation efforts in the Austin community. The Watershed Protection Department's Grow Green materials, which provide valuable information about native, drought-tolerant plants and the maintenance of sustainable landscapes, are also accessible online.