The Colorado House recently passed legislation (SB24-005) that will prohibit the watering of “nonfunctional” turf or invasive plant species on certain property areas.
“Water-wise landscaping can help us conserve our precious water resources and embrace the natural landscapes of Colorado,” said Rep. Karen McCormick. “This legislation would cut back on unnecessary water usage on nonfunctional turf used in medians, greenways and parking lots. Increased climate threats and extreme droughts means we need to effectively manage and preserve the water we all rely on.”
SB24-005 would ban the installation of nonfunctional turf, invasive plant species and artificial turf in any newly developed commercial, institutional, industrial, common interest and state property. This bill would also apply to other little-used areas like parking lots, medians and transportation corridors.
“Cutting back on the amount of water we use on nonfunctional turf in commercial areas can help us conserve our water resources across the state,” said Rep. Barbara McLachlan. “This bill encourages water-wise landscaping and helps our communities embrace the native plants and species that thrive in Colorado. Coloradans are counting on us to effectively and efficiently manage our water resources and this bill is a step forward in protecting this vital resource.”
