DWA Adds $2 Million to Grass Removal Rebate Program by Desert Water Agency Oct 5, 2022 Member Submitted News Desert Water Agency augmented its grass removal program budget by $2 million so more customers can apply for the incentive and help save water. The DWA Board of Directors unanimously approved the additional funding at its regular meeting on Tuesday, Oct. 4, 2022. The program started the 2022-23 fiscal year on July 1 with $1.65 million in funds and already almost 78 percent of it is committed. The augmentation more than doubles the program’s budget. “Removing grass is the best thing most property owners can do to reduce their water footprint,” said Desert Water Agency Board President Kristin Bloomer. “For us, these incentives are a tool to weather drought and be sustainable in the long run. These projects empower our community to be part of the solution.” DWA launched its grass removal incentive program in 2014. In July, the Agency increased the amount it gives customers from $2 to $3 per square foot. For an average front or back yard, the $3 a square foot incentive provides about $4,500 in funding to replace grass with water-efficient plants or artificial turf. With lots of attention on the statewide drought, there has been more participation in DWA conservations programs – especially the grass removal program. “Conserving water is always important in our desert and it is important to replace as much grass as possible when demand is high,” said General Manager Mark Krause. More than 70 percent of water in the Coachella Valley is used outdoors, so replacing grass with drought tolerant plants or artificial turf is the best way to save water. Grass removal funding is available for front and back yards of homes, businesses, HOAs and government agencies. There is no minimum or maximum square footage requirement. Grass must be present when applying and cannot be removed until DWA inspects the property and gives approval. The online application at www.dwa.org/grass is easy to fill out. DWA also offers incentives on smart controllers (up to $250), water efficient nozzles ($5 per nozzle plus an extra $2 per nozzle for install), and EnergyStar washing machines (up to $250). To learn more about incentives, go to www.dwa.org/save About DWA Desert Water Agency is a public, not-for-profit agency and a State Water Contractor, serving a 325-square-mile area, including parts of Cathedral City, outlying county areas, Desert Hot Springs and Palm Springs. DWA provides tap water service to Palm Springs and part of Cathedral City. DWA manages and imports water for use in the western Coachella Valley including Desert Hot Springs. An elected five-member board sets policy and represents the ratepayers. For more information, please visit www.dwa.org or contact Public Affairs & Water Planning Director Ashley Metzger at (760) 323-4971 ext. 184, Ashley@dwa.org
