Coachella Valley December 2022 Drought Update
Recent rain and snowstorms have brought some relief, but not enough to get us out of drought. A few months of the wet season still remain, which typically is from November through March. Despite the early rain and snowstorms, we are still in a drought. Water is a limited natural resource and we need to continue to practice conservation as a way of life. […]
Landscaping Tip of the Month: Group Plants by Sun and Water Needed
Plants that are efficient users of water employ many tricks to stay alive. Some go dormant in the summer. Others have modified leaves that conserve available moisture by being thick, waxy, leathery, fuzzy or hairy. Other plants have green trunks and branches that carry out photosynthesis even if leaves drop. Still others have well developed, deep root systems designed to absorb available moisture. Some have seasonal adaptations. For a basic example, deciduous plants usually require more water in the summer, but survive on much less water in the winter. [...]
Water Counts Academy 2023: Apply by January 31
The Water Counts Academy is designed for current and emerging leaders in the Coachella Valley who want to learn about the lifeblood of our valley — its water resources. We are excited to offer this comprehensive course that will cover the history, use and management of water here in the Coachella Valley. […]
Plant of the Month: Firecracker Plant (Russelia Esquisetiformis)
The firecracker plant is a dramatic, sprawling shrub that can grow up to 4 feet high and up to 6 feet wide, with a canopy coverage that can be up to 28 square feet. When in flower in spring and early summer, it takes the center stage in the landscape. […]
Making Water Conservation a Way of Life
The valley’s six public agencies have worked with each other for decades. But 14 years ago, they formed the Coachella Valley Regional Water Management Group to: Reduce water demand Increase our region’s water supply Improve regional water quality Serve as stewards of our shared water resource Improve efficiency and flexibility […]
Landscaping Tip of the Month: Put Your Vegetable or Herb Garden on its Own Irrigation Zone
A vegetable or herb garden should be on its own irrigation zone. Drip irrigation is an option, but specialty devices such as in-line drippers, multi-heads or irrigation tape can also be used. Check your garden daily when the system is first installed to be certain plants are receiving adequate moisture. Once the winter garden is established, watering may be required only two to three times per week, depending on soil type and the garden’s exposure. […]
