STPUD revives turf buy-back program

Turf is one of the most water intensive landscapes and requires substantial maintenance. Non-functional lawns – ones that are rarely used – waste water and represent an ongoing cost in time and resources for the home and business owner.

From an environmental perspective, lawns tend to be overfertilized and overwatered. With porous Tahoe soils, this combination can push nutrients intended for the lawn into the watershed where they eventually make their way into Lake Tahoe. Once there, they provide nutrients for algal growth that can affect the clarity of the Lake.

The Turf Buy-Back Program has been very successful: in 2008-09 more than 120,000 square feet of turf was “bought back.” In 2009, the program was closed due to lack of funding. However, South Tahoe PUD was recently approved for grant funding to reinstate the turf program.

Starting in spring 2012 applications will be accepted. Replace existing irrigated lawn with Tahoe friendly landscaping and get paid $1.50 per square foot of turf removed. A minimum of 400 square feet of turf must be replaced and your healthy, irrigated lawn must be verified by South Tahoe PUD water conservation staff prior to turf removal. This program is available to all South Tahoe PUD water customers and is first come, first served, terms and conditions apply. Funds are limited.

To be placed on the waiting list or for more information, contact Sarah Jones at (530) 543.6268 or sjones@stpud.dst.ca.us.