Water Conservation and Sustainable Lawn Care in North Idaho

Introduction

North Idaho summers encourage outdoor activities such as swimming in Lake Coeur d’Alene, hiking, and gardening. However, excessive lawn watering is a common issue that leads to water wastage and increased utility costs. This report emphasizes the importance of sustainable water use in alignment with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 6 (Clean Water and Sanitation), SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities), and SDG 15 (Life on Land).

Current Water Usage and Challenges

1. Water Requirements for Lawns: Lawns generally require only one inch of water per week. Overwatering saturates soil, damages grass, and wastes water.
2. Consequences of Overwatering:
   • Shallow root growth reducing plant resilience.
   • Increased susceptibility to diseases and pests.
   • Oxygen deprivation to roots causing slow suffocation.
   • Estimated 50% of outdoor water use is wasted.
3. Impact on Water Resources:
   • Summer water use can be over ten times higher than winter.
   • Water is drawn from the Spokane Valley-Rathdrum Prairie Aquifer, Coeur d’Alene Lake, and Spokane River.
   • Depletion threatens aquatic ecosystems and recreational resources.

Causes of Overwatering

• “Set it and forget it” sprinkler system mentality.
• Unnoticed leaks increasing water consumption.
• Watering based on routine rather than actual plant needs.
• Overwatering triggered by minor dryness without adjusting sprinkler coverage.

Recommendations for Sustainable Water Use

1. Monitor and Maintain Irrigation Systems:
   • Check water meters when sprinklers are off to detect leaks.
   • Adjust sprinkler spray patterns to ensure efficient coverage.
   • Consult professionals for system optimization.
2. Adopt Smart Watering Practices:
   • Water deeply but infrequently, preferably in the morning.
   • Use smart weather-based controllers that adapt watering schedules based on local weather data.
3. Landscape with Water Efficiency in Mind:
   • Replace high-maintenance grass with drought-tolerant and native plants.
   • Use low-water grass alternatives such as fescues or groundcovers like creeping thyme and clover.
   • Promote biodiversity and ecosystem services supporting local wildlife.
   • Utilize plants like clover that enrich soil nutrients naturally, reducing fertilizer use.

Alignment with Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)

• SDG 6 – Clean Water and Sanitation: Efficient water use reduces strain on freshwater sources and ensures availability for all.
• SDG 11 – Sustainable Cities and Communities: Promoting sustainable landscaping contributes to resilient urban environments.
• SDG 15 – Life on Land: Native and drought-tolerant plants support biodiversity and healthy ecosystems.

Conclusion

North Idaho benefits from clean and abundant water resources, yet these are not unlimited. Responsible water use and sustainable landscaping practices are essential to protect these vital resources. By adopting the recommended measures, residents can contribute to achieving the SDGs and preserving the environment for future generations.

Additional Resources

For more information on outdoor water conservation, visit outdoorwateringnerds.org.

About the Contributors

William Rettig, Water Efficiency Specialist, City of Spokane.

The Our Gem Coeur d’Alene Lake Collaborative is a partnership of experts from the University of Idaho, Coeur d’Alene Tribe, Idaho Department of Environmental Quality, and other organizations dedicated to protecting water quality and promoting community awareness.

1. Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) Addressed or Connected

1. SDG 6: Clean Water and Sanitation
   • The article discusses water conservation, efficient water use, and protecting water sources such as aquifers, lakes, and rivers.
2. SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities
   • It highlights sustainable water management in urban and residential settings, promoting responsible water use in landscaping.
3. SDG 15: Life on Land
   • The article refers to protecting local ecosystems by conserving water and supporting native and drought-tolerant plants that benefit wildlife.
4. SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production
   • Encourages reducing water waste and adopting efficient watering habits, which aligns with sustainable consumption practices.

2. Specific Targets Under Those SDGs Identified

1. SDG 6: Clean Water and Sanitation
   • Target 6.4: By 2030, substantially increase water-use efficiency across all sectors to ensure sustainable withdrawals and supply of freshwater.
   • Target 6.3: Improve water quality by reducing pollution and minimizing the release of hazardous chemicals.
2. SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities
   • Target 11.3: Enhance inclusive and sustainable urbanization and capacity for participatory, integrated human settlement planning and management.
3. SDG 15: Life on Land
   • Target 15.1: Ensure the conservation, restoration, and sustainable use of terrestrial and inland freshwater ecosystems.
4. SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production
   • Target 12.2: Achieve sustainable management and efficient use of natural resources.

3. Indicators Mentioned or Implied to Measure Progress

1. Water Use Efficiency Indicators
   • Percentage reduction in outdoor water use or water wasted (article mentions up to 50% water waste in outdoor watering).
   • Measurement of water consumption during peak sprinkler season compared to off-season usage.
2. Water Quality and Aquifer Health Indicators
   • Levels of water extraction from the Spokane Valley-Rathdrum Prairie Aquifer and its impact on connected lakes and rivers.
   • Monitoring water quality in Coeur d’Alene Lake and Spokane River to assess ecosystem health.
3. Adoption of Water-Efficient Practices
   • Number or percentage of households using smart weather-based controllers and drought-tolerant landscaping.
   • Incidence of leaks detected via water meter monitoring.
4. Ecological Indicators
   • Presence and health of native and drought-tolerant plants supporting local wildlife.
   • Soil nutrient levels improved by nitrogen-fixing plants like clover.

4. Table: SDGs, Targets and Indicators

Source: cdapress.com