Leaders in Gilbert are considering expanding a water conservation program as concerns continue to grow over the long-term reliability of the Colorado River, a major source of the town’s water supply.
Town officials are reviewing a proposal that would allocate $250,000 toward expanding a grass removal rebate program. As part of that plan, the Town Council is expected to consider applying for a $125,000 federal grant through the Bureau of Reclamation’s WaterSMART Small-Scale Water Efficiency Project. If approved, the town would match that funding to reach the full $250,000 budget.
The additional funding would go toward expanding Gilbert’s non-residential grass removal rebate program, which encourages businesses, HOAs, and other properties to replace grass with low-water-use landscaping.
Town officials say the urgency behind the proposal is tied directly to water supply concerns. About 41% of Gilbert’s water comes from the Colorado River, and that source is increasingly at risk due to ongoing drought conditions and overuse across the system. Water experts describe the river as overallocated, meaning demand already exceeds available supply.
Since the program first launched in May 2023, it has already led to 15 projects that removed a total of 149,600 square feet of grass. According to town estimates, every square foot of grass removed can save roughly 50 gallons of water each year. With the proposed funding increase, officials say an additional 40,000 square feet of grass could be removed, leading to further water savings.
Local water usage patterns also highlight why conservation efforts are being prioritized. Officials noted that nearly 70% of Gilbert’s potable water is used outdoors, making landscaping one of the biggest opportunities for reducing consumption.
Town leaders emphasized that improving water efficiency is becoming increasingly critical as drought conditions persist. They say efforts like grass removal programs are essential steps in protecting the community’s long-term water supply and ensuring resources are used more responsibly moving forward.
Source: ABC15 Arizona
