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XERISCAPE LANDSCAPING Also visit our Water Conservation page
**Check out this Sprinkler Calculator compliments of the City of Spokane and Ecology**
Xeriscape landscapes are defined as "quality landscaping that conserves water and protects the environment." There are seven principles associated with Xeriscape landscapes:
The impact of more people building and living along streams, rivers and lakes can accelerate the natural aging process of a waterway and drastically reduce water quality. We all live in an environment which needs protection, whether you live on or near Liberty Lake, Liberty Creek, the Spokane River, or over the precious Spokane/Rathdrum prairie aquifer, there are many things each of us can do to lessen the impact to our environment. Here are some suggestions made by the Washington State University Cooperative Extension that apply to all landscapes:
Click to enlarge the diagrams
Click here for a Vascular Plant List for Spokane County (.pdf)
LAWN FERTILIZER Fertilize with Care! If your must fertilize, do not use phosphorus compounds! The soils at Liberty Lake have adequate phosphorus naturally. So if you must fertilize, and for the protection of the lake, aquifer and environment, “fertilize with care”. A common “rule of thumb” for fertilizing Washington lawns is no more than 4 pounds of nitrogen per 1000 square foot per year. The plants will not use anything in excess of this. How do you compute the amount of nitrogen in a bag of fertilizer? Generally there are three numbers on the fertilizer bag, i.e. 21-0-0. The first number is the percent of nitrogen (N), the second number is phosphorus (P), and the third number is potash. It is the second number, phosphorus, that can find its way back to streams, rivers, and lakes causing excessive aquatic growth. Find fertilizers with zero phosphorus (P). It is recommended to fertilize lightly four (4) times per year using the holidays Easter, Memorial Day, 4th of July and Labor Day as reminders. For a 1000 square foot yard, using a 50 pound bag of 21-0-0 fertilizer, each of the 4 applications would require approximately 5 pounds or a 2 pound coffee can filled ¾ full of fertilizer. Buying fertilizer can also be confusing. Fertilizer can be quick release (all Nitrogen (N) is release immediately) such as urea, ammonium sulfate and ammonium nitrate; slow release (nitrogen is released over a longer period of time) such as IBDU, sulfur-coated urea and ureaform; and “bridge” type fertilizers (a mixture of quick release and slow release products). Always apply fertilizer according to the manufacturers recommendations. Excessive use of fertilizer will not be use by the plants and tends to migrate to ground and surface waters. Hire a professional if possible and insist on phosphorus-free fertilizer. Ask you local distributor to stock phosphorus-free fertilizer for the Liberty Lake area.
PHOSPHORUS LAWN FERTILIZER NO USE POLICY The Liberty Lake Sewer and Water District has recognized the need to protect the lake, surface and groundwater and has adopted policies, guidelines and recommendations for that purpose. In an effort to reduce pollutants that contribute to algae blooms and water quality deterioration, the Liberty Lake Sewer and Water District is discouraging the use of lawn fertilizers that contain the element Phosphorus within the watershed of Liberty Lake. Phosphorus is one of the key elements necessary for growth of plants and animals, however phosphorus can cause environmental impacts if an excess of phosphate enters the waterway. This condition is known as eutrophication or over-fertilization of receiving waters. The rapid growth of aquatic vegetation can cause the death and decay of vegetation and aquatic life because of the decrease in dissolved oxygen levels. Phosphorus Lawn Fertilizer No Use Policy Resolution # 46-05
LLSWD'S DEMO GARDEN The Liberty Lake Sewer and Water District has established a demonstration garden at its administration building to demonstrate what types of plants could be used for environmentally friendly landscapes. Currently over 100 labeled types of plants are on display at the demo garden with over 2,000 total plants being shown. RAMM and Associates, Inc. completed the Concept Master Plan in 1999, and since that time many additions have been made. The Liberty Lake Sewer and Water District gives thanks to all who have helped in the success of this project.
LLSWD IMPLEMENTS IRRIGATION TECHNOLOGY In addition to demonstrating proper landscaping techniques, the LLSWD installed a soil moisture sensor at the Administration Building to cut back lawn irrigation and to conserve water. The technology of advanced soil moisture sensors and monitors work with your existing or new controller and valve wires to maximize water savings and time management. The soil sensors are buried in the root zone and relay real time soil moisture data back to the controller or monitor unit. Sensor data is utilized to automatically determine watering intervals based on the moisture content of the soil at the turf's root zone. For more information, visit http://www.baselinesystems.com or contact BiJay Adams. Or for technical .pdf's:
REFERENCES For additional information for landscaping ideas and techniques visit Washington's Water or contact the Washington State University Cooperative Extension. Additional information may be obtained at the Liberty Lake Sewer and Water District Administration Building, our Links page, or contact BiJay Adams.
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