Residential outdoor water use in the United States accounts for more than 9 billion gallons of water each day, mainly for landscape irrigation. It is estimated that as much as 50 percent of that water is wasted through evaporation, wind, or runoff due in part to improper irrigation system design, installation, and/or maintenance.
Improving landscaping practices can significantly reduce water use, especially in the Coachella Valley and our desert climate.
Landscapers interested in improving their water efficiency skills can take advantage of two landscaper certificate courses offered through a partnership between the College of the Desert, CVWD, and the Coachella Valley Association of Governments. These certificates can also be helpful for landscapers who are applying for or renewing their business licenses.
Topics covered in the two training courses include understanding the impacts of soil types, plant choices, irrigation systems, and weather, along with improved overseeding techniques that consider water use and reduce air emissions.
Training courses are free and can be conveniently taken on a computer anytime at your home or office, or you can complete them in person at College of the Desert’s PaCE offices located in the Shops at Palm Desert.
For more information, visit the COD website or contact the COD’s PaCE program at (760) 776- 7420 or codpace@collegeofthedesert.edu.
