Native Grass Educational Workshop

Native Grass Educational Workshop and Project Site Visits

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2023 Workshop Summary

Thank you to everyone who joined us July 27 and 28, 2023 in Colorado Springs to earn how to be successful with the installation and maintenance of native grasses in irrigated landscapes in Colorado.

HOAs, businesses, campuses, and homeowners are seeking more sustainable, water-conserving, low-maintenance options. Native grasses are one of the best solutions for low-use, sunny areas.

Our expert speakers shared their experiences, best practices, and lessons learned. Attendees visited established and in-progress projects to gain inspiration and practical knowledge.

Hosted by Colorado Springs Utilities, the Native Grass Working Group, and Colorado WaterWise.

Native Grass in Wildflower Park

Event Details

Thursday, July 27, 2023 – Focus on Residential Projects

9 am to 4 pm

Educational Sessions (half day, morning or afternoon

  • Inspiration about how native grasses help create drought-resilient landscapes
  • Overview of installation process and long-term maintenance
  • Sessions with homeowner projects sharing lessons learned

Site visits (half day, morning or afternoon)

  • Colorado Springs Utilities Demonstration Garden
  • A residential property with a professionally-installed blue grama lawn
  • A residential property with a homeowner-installed buffalograss lawn

Friday, July 28, 2023 – Focus on Business, Campus, and Parks Projects

9 am to 4 pm

Educational Sessions (half day, morning or afternoon)

  • Overview of Colorado’s water situation and the role of native grass projects
  • Keynote presentation by Dr. Tony Koski, Conversion Steps and Herbicides
  • Featured projects, including Jarod Clayton, Colorado Springs Parks and Recreation Department

Site visits (half day, morning or afternoon)

  • Colorado Springs Utilities Demonstration Garden
  • Colorado Springs Parks Project
  • Other projects TBD