In response to the ongoing drought challenge across the Southwest, Peoria Parks and Recreation is launching a new Turf Reduction Water Conservation program. Starting this week, the city will be removing non-programmable turf in 18 city parks and replacing it with desert landscaping. Playing fields are not part of this project.
This project is part of Peoria’s commitment to water conservation, which includes issuing a Stage One Drought Contingency Plan in August 2022. For every one acre of turf removed, Peoria will save up to one million gallons of water a year!
The new xeriscape will feature native plants that require less water and maintenance than traditional grass. This will result in a significant reduction in water consumption while also providing environmental benefits such as reducing air pollution, storm water runoff, and the heat island effect.
The process of removing turf is seasonal and can only be done during the summer and fall months when the grass is at its healthiest. Designated turf will be prepared for removal, resulting in brown and dying grass. During this process, the area of turf removal will remain open until crews start to physically remove the grass. Contractors will post signage while onsite and spraying the grass. The area is safe to walk on when the product dries. This process may cause temporary inconveniences but will ultimately lead to long-term water conservation efforts.
Of the 18 current turf reduction program locations, those parks in 85383 include:
• Palo Verde Park, 26200 N. 73rd Dr.
• Sonoran Mountain Ranch Park, 7098 W. Miner Trl.
• Terramar Park, 6900 W. Happy Valley Rd.
• Westland Park, 31565 N. Westland Rd.
• WestWing Park, 27100 N. Westwing Pkwy.
To learn more about this project, visit peoriaaz.gov/turfreduction or call the project information line at 623-670-5800.
