Note: This site is for reviewing legacy plan of work data from 2007-2011. If you are looking for the current plan of work interface, visit pow.nmsu.edu.
Conservation and Efficient Use of Water (Los Alamos County)
Plan Goals
The overall objective of the Los Alamos water conservation education plan is to lower residential and comercial outdoor water use through a variety of conservation measures that can easily be implemented by residents and owners in a phased approach
- Owner
- Related Plans
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Conservation and Efficient Use of Water
Impact Reports
Water conservation education has continued to be a major focus of the agent during the past year. The agent continued collaboration with the Los Alamos Utilities Department on the development and distribution of utility bill inserts which include information on landscape water conservation. The inserts were distributed to 7200 utility users throughout the county during the summer months. The inserts have been received very favorably as evidenced by the number of follow-up phone calls to the agent.
In addition the agent is involved in the design and development of the landscape for
the Japan-U.S. Smart Grid Collaborative Smart House Demonstration Project being
conducted in Los Alamos that started in January 2010. The collaborative project on smart grid technology is being carried out by NEDO (New Energy and Industrial Technology Development Organization of Japan), the State of New Mexico, Los Alamos National Laboratory and Sandia National Laboratories of the U.S. Department of Energy and Los Alamos County Utilities Department. In addition to the main focus of the wider implementation of renewable energy and the promotion of energy conservation the agent is leading the design and development efforts to establish a sustainable landscape which surrounds the structure.
Additionally the agent presented two lectures on plant selection to groups in White Rock and Los Alamos which had a total of 43 participants. A Powerpoint presentation of 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. A number of participants thanked the agent following the presentations indicating that they had enjoyed the lecture style and hade gained an immense amount of new knowledge as a result.
The agent presented a plant selection lecture to 22 Master Gardener trainees in Los Alamos. 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 a second year the agent presented “Water Harvesting Workshop: The Permaculture Way” to 11 participants. During 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.
This was also the second year the agent presented a workshop on “Raingardens”. Twenty-six participated in the workshop which included a simple method for sizing and designing rain gardens and detail proper construction techniques.
As a result of the training the participants, as measured by a post-evaluation instrument, developed an understanding of why storm water needs to be managed, as well as a understanding of the principles of rain garden location, design, construction and maintenance and the ability to select appropriate vegetation.
The agent also continued the traditional Extension venue of making one-on-one contacts with clientele throughout the county which included those specifically related to landscape water conservation as well as general cultural questions which influences water usage in the landscape. The agent made 671 such contacts during the program year, including general xeriscape questions, especially plant selection, proper irrigation techniques, and the selection and use of mulches. Evaluation of these contacts included a post-contact survey instrument given to personal contacts measuring perceived gains in knowledge, usefulness of that knowledge, and the professionalism and timeliness of the agent in responding. The instrument was given to every fourth clientele receiving information following a contact. Datum consistently showed that over 95% of the respondents indicated a gain in knowledge of over 60% and that this information was very useful. Data also showed an over 85% positive response to the timeliness of response and professionalism exhibited by the agent.
In addition the agent is involved in the design and development of the landscape for
the Japan-U.S. Smart Grid Collaborative Smart House Demonstration Project being
conducted in Los Alamos that started in January 2010. The collaborative project on smart grid technology is being carried out by NEDO (New Energy and Industrial Technology Development Organization of Japan), the State of New Mexico, Los Alamos National Laboratory and Sandia National Laboratories of the U.S. Department of Energy and Los Alamos County Utilities Department. In addition to the main focus of the wider implementation of renewable energy and the promotion of energy conservation the agent is leading the design and development efforts to establish a sustainable landscape which surrounds the structure.
Additionally the agent presented two lectures on plant selection to groups in White Rock and Los Alamos which had a total of 43 participants. A Powerpoint presentation of 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. A number of participants thanked the agent following the presentations indicating that they had enjoyed the lecture style and hade gained an immense amount of new knowledge as a result.
The agent presented a plant selection lecture to 22 Master Gardener trainees in Los Alamos. 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 a second year the agent presented “Water Harvesting Workshop: The Permaculture Way” to 11 participants. During 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.
This was also the second year the agent presented a workshop on “Raingardens”. Twenty-six participated in the workshop which included a simple method for sizing and designing rain gardens and detail proper construction techniques.
As a result of the training the participants, as measured by a post-evaluation instrument, developed an understanding of why storm water needs to be managed, as well as a understanding of the principles of rain garden location, design, construction and maintenance and the ability to select appropriate vegetation.
The agent also continued the traditional Extension venue of making one-on-one contacts with clientele throughout the county which included those specifically related to landscape water conservation as well as general cultural questions which influences water usage in the landscape. The agent made 671 such contacts during the program year, including general xeriscape questions, especially plant selection, proper irrigation techniques, and the selection and use of mulches. Evaluation of these contacts included a post-contact survey instrument given to personal contacts measuring perceived gains in knowledge, usefulness of that knowledge, and the professionalism and timeliness of the agent in responding. The instrument was given to every fourth clientele receiving information following a contact. Datum consistently showed that over 95% of the respondents indicated a gain in knowledge of over 60% and that this information was very useful. Data also showed an over 85% positive response to the timeliness of response and professionalism exhibited by the agent.
Funding for the Rio Grande Basin Initiative was secured for the 2010-2011 fiscal year. Currently there are 12 Research and Extension Projects along with several County Projects. Evaluation, outcomes and deliverables for this project will be outlined in the 2009-2010 Progress Report, which is prepared annually by TAMU and NMSU. This report is located on the RGBI NMSU website (http://aces.nmsu.edu/rgbi).
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.
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.
Funding for the Rio Grande Basin Initiative was secured for the 2009-2010 fiscal year. Currently there are 12 Research and Extension Projects along with 8 County Projects. Evaluation, outcomes and deliverables for this project are outlined in the 2008-2009 Progress Report, which is prepared annually by TAMU and NMSU. This report is located on the RGBI NMSU website (http://aces.nmsu.edu/rgbi).
As identified by the local horticultural advisory committee, water conservation education remained a major focus of the Los Alamos horticulture agent during the reporting period. Major collaboration continued with the Department of Public Utilities.
The distribution of informational inserts in two monthly utility billings looked at irrigation system efficiency 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 75%.
There were also a number of public programs, including two plant selection presentations, two general xeriscape presentations and a presentation by nationally renowned xeriscape author Marsha Tatroe, who made a presentation of the evolution of a xeriscape garden. The total number of participants in these programs exceeded 153 participants with over 82% of the participants indicating a better that 80% increase in knowledge about basic xeriscape principles and selection of plants adapted to Los Alamos County.
The horticulture agent spent considerable time preparing an information pamphlet for local businesses on using planted containers as a way to increase there “business curb appeal and conserve water at the same time. The pamphlet contained information on all aspects of container gardening during all four seasons of the year. It was prepared in collaboration with the Los Alamos Small Business Development Center as a part of larger effort to increase the appeal of Los Alamos businesses fronts. A container garden was established at the Los Alamos Visitors Center as an example to local businesses. The information was also made available on-line.
In addition, the agent hosted two workshops to local businesses and landscape contractors on irrigation system efficiency as part of “best practices” guidelines being developed in collaboration with the Los Alamos Small Business Development Center. There were 19 businesses and contractors attending the workshops.
Continued progress was made in the development of the Los Alamos Demonstration Garden, a ¾ acre garden devoted to demonstrating water conservation principles to county residents. There was continued progress on the reestablishment of the oasis, transition and xeric plantings, as well as continued work on the herb garden. There were also new plantings of native shrubbery in the native area of the garden. Work began on two new plantings. The first is a planting featuring shade tolerant plants for heavy soils. The second, a project to build a vertical rock garden featuring plants that can establish in the vertical spaces between rocks. Both situations commonly found in Los Alamos county gardens. An estimated 750 people visit the garden each year and community surveys continually a vast majority (74%) of the citizens find garden of “great value”.
The agent made 907 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% gain in knowledge about the specific water conservation issue discussed in consultation with the agent.
Overall, outdoor water use has continued to trend downward since water conservation efforts were started in earnest in 2002.
The distribution of informational inserts in two monthly utility billings looked at irrigation system efficiency 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 75%.
There were also a number of public programs, including two plant selection presentations, two general xeriscape presentations and a presentation by nationally renowned xeriscape author Marsha Tatroe, who made a presentation of the evolution of a xeriscape garden. The total number of participants in these programs exceeded 153 participants with over 82% of the participants indicating a better that 80% increase in knowledge about basic xeriscape principles and selection of plants adapted to Los Alamos County.
The horticulture agent spent considerable time preparing an information pamphlet for local businesses on using planted containers as a way to increase there “business curb appeal and conserve water at the same time. The pamphlet contained information on all aspects of container gardening during all four seasons of the year. It was prepared in collaboration with the Los Alamos Small Business Development Center as a part of larger effort to increase the appeal of Los Alamos businesses fronts. A container garden was established at the Los Alamos Visitors Center as an example to local businesses. The information was also made available on-line.
In addition, the agent hosted two workshops to local businesses and landscape contractors on irrigation system efficiency as part of “best practices” guidelines being developed in collaboration with the Los Alamos Small Business Development Center. There were 19 businesses and contractors attending the workshops.
Continued progress was made in the development of the Los Alamos Demonstration Garden, a ¾ acre garden devoted to demonstrating water conservation principles to county residents. There was continued progress on the reestablishment of the oasis, transition and xeric plantings, as well as continued work on the herb garden. There were also new plantings of native shrubbery in the native area of the garden. Work began on two new plantings. The first is a planting featuring shade tolerant plants for heavy soils. The second, a project to build a vertical rock garden featuring plants that can establish in the vertical spaces between rocks. Both situations commonly found in Los Alamos county gardens. An estimated 750 people visit the garden each year and community surveys continually a vast majority (74%) of the citizens find garden of “great value”.
The agent made 907 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% gain in knowledge about the specific water conservation issue discussed in consultation with the agent.
Overall, outdoor water use has continued to trend downward since water conservation efforts were started in earnest in 2002.