Local governments and water conservation : case studies in lawn conversion programs

Author / Creator

MacSwain, Daniel M., 1989- author

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Physical

Summary

The purpose of this study was to identify and evaluate local government lawn conversion programs that incentivize homeowners to convert turf lawns into a more sustainable, water-efficient landscape...

The purpose of this study was to identify and evaluate local government lawn conversion programs that incentivize homeowners to convert turf lawns into a more sustainable, water-efficient landscape. Seven communities' lawn conversion programs are assessed through interviews with city officials administering or implementing the program. The research objectives included determining where lawn conversion programs are located, why they were adopted, determining how city officials measured their effectiveness, major barriers and benefits of adopting the program, and asking city officials whether or not they recommended other communities adopt a program. This research found 33 programs in seven states, with six of the seven communities recommending other communities adopt a similar program. Major barriers to the adoption of a program included 1) obtaining support from city council and staff, 2) time and resources required to administer the program, 30 acceptance of more water-efficient landscape practices, 4 ) a lack of knowledge on maintenance requirements of these of landscapes, and 5) the program's overall impact on water usage. Major benefits cited included water saving positive citizen feedback and support, environmental benefits, and its use as an education and awareness tool. This research should help improve the effectiveness of existing programs and seguide a guiede for communities seeking to adopt a similar lawn conversion program.

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