|
According to research by the Environmental Protection Agency, for the same amount of development, denser development produces less runoff and less impervious cover than low-density development. But what does that mean? Runoff occurs when there is more water than the surrounding land can absorb, meaning the excess water “runs off” into the street and stormwater facilities, eventually making its way to streams and rivers. This can be a cause for concern depending on what pollutants the water may have accumulated along the way. Which means its water wise to reduce runoff.
While the Planning team is working on projects like Building Opportunity for Housing to leverage the co-benefits of housing choice, did you know property owners can make their own impact on water usage in Spokane?
Removing turf grass is one of the most water conscious adjustments a property owner can make to reduce their water usage. By removing lawn and planting drought tolerant plants, you can reduce how much water you use on your landscaping while also reducing water runoff.
SpokaneScape, a program offered by Water Wise Spokane, can make it easier to make your property water wise. Visit their website to learn whether your property is eligible for a utility bill credit after removing existing lawn, find a list of Spokane native drought tolerant plants, and watch the DIY SpokaneScape video series to guide you through the process of landscaping your property the water wise way.
And with this heat, make sure you’re being water wise yourself and drinking plenty of water to stay hydrated!
| 
