A thirsty non-native turf area was converted to a beautiful, thriving, mostly-native front yard scene for people, birds, animals, and insects to enjoy. Combining art with function, this project features an attractive dry creek bed that collects rainwater runoff from the roof and landscape area and uses it as a means of natural irrigation by routing the water to the plants on site. The boulders and rocks within the creek also provide habitat for lizards around the property, which can be found sunbathing or eating the insects that are attracted to the native plant material. The sound of songbirds can be heard in the trees, who frequently come down to bathe in the installed fountain. The previously existing non-native, high water-use lawn was removed and replaced with a smaller lawn of no-mowing required, low water-use native grass.
Previously existing low-efficiency spray emitters were
replaced with high-efficiency
drip irrigation throughout
the project. The cost of
this project was rebated in
full by the City of Sacramento's
River Friendly Landscape program.