What is this indicator?
This indicator measures the percent of new or replaced, non-turf, public landscaped area and non-recreational turf area planted with regionally appropriate plants.
Why is it important?
This indicator was developed to quantify the broader concept of Sustainable Landscape. Sustainable Landscape is based upon a unique set of design principles. These design principles are outlined below and reflect the different elements to consider when creating a landscape that minimizes its impact on precious resources like water, but maximizes its potential for creating long lasting beauty and ecological habitat. A well thought out, resource efficient design will reduce maintenance costs by working in concert with natural cycles instead of against them.
How are we doing?
As of 2016, a total of 94% of the public landscaping contained regionally appropriate vegetation. As of June 2015, the City has issued 398 sustainable landscape grants and rebates to residents and businesses, which save an estimated 5,866,416 gallons of water per year.