News & Updates

Josey Ranch Water-Wise Conservation Garden Ribbon Cutting and Grand Opening

A grand opening ribbon-cutting ceremony was held at on Saturday, August 11 for Carrollton’s new Water-Wise Conservation Garden, situated between the Josey Ranch Lake Library (1700 Keller Springs Road) and the Carrollton Senior Center (1720 Keller Springs Road).

The Garden uses water-conserving plants, the most recent irrigation efficient technology, LED lighting, improved soil quality and mulch. The development of the garden was a public-private partnership, led by the City of Carrollton Public Works and Parks and Recreation departments, in cooperation with local contractors and The Home Depot’s Carrollton location. Design of this project was initiated in 2011 and the construction concluded in mid-2012. This $30,000 project was funded through the DOE (Department of Energy) Water Education Grant. This portion of the grant is concerned with water conservation, education and outreach. By providing efficient options for plant materials and irrigation practices for both home and office, the City will be able to increase water conservation, while reducing energy needs and decrease water demand throughout the City.

In the summertime, more than 50% of our water is used on our lawns and landscaping. To reduce the impacts of drought and ensure efficient water usage, the City is taking a proactive approach to reduce water consumption in our outdoor spaces. The plants used in the garden require little water once established, the drip irrigation system is plugged into a weather station and only waters when the soil is dry, and we have improved the soil health, and topped off with mulch to reduce water loss during hot months. Each of these elements will allow for a healthy and beautiful garden, and only require minimal water needs. It is estimated, through education, the amount of water used at a residence for irrigation can be reduced by 20-30%. The City aims to achieve this goal by 2020. The installation of water conservation gardens will allow residents hands-on explanations for improving their home landscape.

The garden will serve as the site for educational programs for children and adults with a focus on effective water and energy conservation practices, along with the City’s first completed Water-wise Conservation Garden can be found at Don Cline Pump Station (2150 Old Denton Road). In addition, educational programs for professionals will be led by subject matter experts to promote new installations, and improved existing installations. For more information, call 972-466-3425.