Localscapes

from Summer 2023 Edition

Garden Explorer

Utah’s Statewide Landscape Incentive Program

By Cynthia Bee, Jordan Valley Water Conservancy District

Utah got a much-needed breather this spring after the challenges presented by historic drought the past few years. As we see the high volume of spring runoff and flooding, it’s tempting to think that our water problems are solved, but the benefits of one historic year of high-volume snowpack will melt away without our continued commitment to conservation. Our supply isn’t only about how much we “get” but rather how much of it we can “keep.”

Thousands of Utah homeowners from all over the state have already “Localscaped” and their results prove that we don’t have to choose between water-efficiency and attractive landscapes, we can enjoy both. As a result of the success of these early-adopters, funding to help more Utahns achieve similar results has followed. Thanks to action from the Utah State Legislature and water districts, the first statewide landscape incentive programs in the United States, managed through Utah Water Savers, is now available in qualified communities. If you’re hoping to complete a landscape project, and receive cash back for your efforts, here’s what you need to know:

1) Incentives are offered to transform existing landscapes in communities that have taken proactive measures to ensure long-term sustainability. To be a “qualifying community,” the city or unincorporated county must adopt water-efficiency standards for new construction. Standards ensure that new growth bears more of the responsibility for its own impact on our shared water supply. Find out if you live in a qualified community here: Conserve Water Utah.

2) Is your city not on the list of qualified communities? Contact the Community Development Department to find out if they are currently in the process of adopting water-efficiency standards for new construction. Many additional cities are currently considering these changes, your support matters.

3) The Landscape Incentive program is designed to provide participants with a cash-back incentive for the permanent removal and replacement of lawn with water-efficient landscaping. The exact plant coverage requirements and percentage of lawn allowed vary by region and are based on the best practices for each region.

**Santa Clara - Localscapes design without lawn**

4) Incentives cannot be paid out retroactively thus potential participants must wait until the project is approved to begin work. Lawn to be removed must be actively growing to qualify.

5) Participants are required to attend a free landscape class offered either online or in person to learn the proper implementation and landscape management techniques for long-term project success. Both the required and optional support classes are offered through Localscapes.

6) Exact incentive amounts will vary based on location and project parameters. Interested property owners should visit Utah Water Savers and follow the promptings to input information that will generate an estimated payout before applying. Incentives are up to $3 per square foot.

7) Larger projects will require a basic project plan that is drawn to scale. This plan can be created by a professional or a homeowner. Our online Localscapes Design Workshop is available to help those who wish to create their own plan but require some assistance to do so. Access our free, online Design Workshop to create your design.

8) Projects must be completed within a year. We recommend planning for your ultimate project area, even if you’ll complete the work in multi-year phases. Minimum project size is 200 square feet.

You may decide to do your landscape projects yourself, but you don’t have to do them alone. Free resources are available to help you create your ideal Utah yard every step of the way!