The City of Fountain Valley Public Works Yard recently underwent an extensive transformation in front of its main gates off of Mt. Herrmann Street. The project consisted of replacing 3,143 square feet of nonfunctional turf with 440 drought-tolerant plants. Before the turf was removed, the project was submitted to the Municipal Water District of Orange County’s (MWDOC) rebate program, which approved a rebate of up to $12,572 ($4 per square foot) upon completion. Irving Castillo, our Landscape Inspector, designed the project and worked with Nieves Landscape, our Median and Right-of-way contractor, to execute the transformation. The renovation began on April 30 and was completed on May 13.The new landscaping will save approximately 138,292 gallons of water each year and incorporates a dry riverbed that will aid in reducing runoff leaving the property, which eventually reaches the ocean in addition to increasing water use efficiency by watering the plants, conserving water, and developing strong root systems by providing a place where runoff water can be collected and slowly percolated into the ground. The drought-tolerant landscaping includes two Palo Verde trees on either side of topiary boxwood bushes that are in the shape of the letters “FVPW” (Fountain Valley Public Works), as well as color guard yucca, sea lavender, senecio, and red yucca. If you have a chance, come by the City Yard and see it in person!This project reflects the City’s commitment to making every drop count and serves as an example to other residential and commercial sites that will hopefully consider removing their turf and converting it to drought-tolerant landscaping as well. As opportunities and funding become available, the City plans to convert other areas of nonfunctional turf such as Well #8, City Hall, the Senior Center, and Fire Station No. 2.Due to the State’s ban on the use of potable water to irrigate nonfunctional turf at Commercial, Industrial and Institutional (CII) sites, the City stopped watering nonfunctional turf to comply because the turf in front of the City Yard was solely ornamental and not used for human recreational purposes or for civic or community events. However, watering of trees and other perennial non-turf plants are allowed. If you are interested in learning more about the available commercial and residential water use efficiency rebates, please visit HERE.
