Colorado is investing in turf replacement initiatives to cut outdoor water use. The Colorado Water Conservation Board (CWCB) is championing transformative landscape change to addresses climate and population pressures while seeking broader ecosystem benefits.
The Colorado Water Plan directs CWCB to explore various water-saving strategies, including turf replacement. The primary goal is to decrease outdoor municipal water demand while maintaining livable and aesthetically pleasing outdoor areas.
Colorado averages just 17 inches of annual precipitation. Consequently, many vegetation types require supplemental irrigation to thrive. Reducing outdoor municipal water use demands a significant cultural shift towards incorporating lower water-use plants and grasses that naturally complement Colorado's beauty.
Beyond just Colorado turf replacement, effective water-wise landscaping fully embraces xeriscape principles. This means using efficient irrigation and committing to ongoing maintenance. The overall aim is to create and sustainably manage resilient landscapes.
The CWCB provides various resources to support these efforts including:
- A "State-of-the-Science Report" that identifies best practices for developing sustainable urban environments. It delves into the complexities of outdoor municipal water use and offers data-driven insights.
- A statewide "DIY Landscape Transformation Guide" that provides step-by-step instructions for Colorado residents on how to create more resilient and sustainable water-wise landscapes on their own properties.
- An Exploratory Economic Turf Analysis in both 2023 and 2024 which assessed the potential costs and benefits associated with turf replacement.
The Turf Replacement Grant Program has supported many of these initiatives. However, funding from its last application cycle, which closed in February 2025, will be fully awarded by May 2025. Currently, no further funding is designated for this specific grant program.
