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Impact Report

For plan Conservation and Efficient Use of Water (Los Alamos County)
Date November 3, 2010, 5:25 pm
For Objective Long-term Show long-term objectives
Impact Report The distribution of informational inserts in two monthly utility billings looked at the role of trees in the landscape and water harvesting as their primary focus. The inserts are distributed to 7200 households and businesses throughout the county. Post-distribution surveys show that not only are the inserts well received, but that over 60% of the readers increase their knowledge by over 73%. Three plant selection lectures were presented to groups in White Rock and Los Alamos which had a total of 121 participants. Powerpoint presentation on 125 trees, shrubs and perennials that have the potential for saving water in the landscape. Presentations were adapted to both the Los Alamos and White Rock areas. Participants increased their knowledge about zoning plants together according to water requirements and discovered mechanisms plants use to save water. A plant selection lecture was presented to 31 Master Gardener trainees in Los Alamos and Taos Emphasis was on native plants and those plants which require minimum water for survival. Lists of plants and their characteristics were provided to participants for their use in working with clientele. The agent presented “Water Harvesting Workshop: The Permaculture Way” to 16 participants. In this hands-on workshop participants learned how to design a permaculture based edible landscape that harvests its own water. Participants installed a rainwater tank/cistern, dug passive water harvesting earthworks, and installed a basic gravity fed greywater irrigation system. Participants developed a basic understanding of how to design and install their own water harvesting systems at home. A workshop on “Raingardens” was presented to 23 participants in Los Alamos county The workshop presented a simple method for sizing and designing rain gardens and detailed proper construction techniques. As a result of the training participants, as measured by a post-evaluation instrument, developed an understanding of why stormwater needs to be managed, understanding of the principles of rain garden location, design, construction and maintenance and the ability to select appropriate vegetation. “Green-It-Yourself: Greenroof Workshop” was presented to 11 participants. Participants increased knowledge about the process of both planning and building your own greenroof, supply and material sourcing information and recommendations, planning, construction, and installation techniques, growing medium mixtures and recommended plantings. The Agent presented a workshop on container gardening to members of the Los Alamos Commerce Development Corporation as part of a continued effort to make curb appeal improvements. Ten local businesses took part in the program and received a guide prepared by the agent. The agent made 514 one-on-one contacts specific to water conservation and xeriscapes during the reporting period (includes primarily plant selection and proper irrigation techniques, selection and use of mulches and general cultural contacts (includes fertilizing, pruning, etc.) One-on-one contacts continue to be a major part of the water conservation effort. Surveys of sample clientele indicate an average of over 75% have a 60-80% gain in knowledge about the specific water conservation issues discussed in consultation with the agent. Data is continuing to be analyzed and has continued to show a downward decline in outdoor water use. Seasonal outdoor water use has steadily decreased (42%) since the water conservation education program began in earnest in 2002 and has leveled in 2008 and 2009. Data is collected and analyzed by the utilities department.