What’s wrong with this picture? Palm trees are tropical plants that require more water than natives. As with all mature trees, multiple emitters should be scattered around the “drip line” where the foliage extends; water must soak down three feet. A single emitter against the trunk is ineffective and wasteful. (Photo by Connie Kotke)
Connie Kotke
Conserving groundwater in SaddleBrooke is a collaborative effort among homeowners, staff, and HOA leaders. In March, the SaddleBrooke Public Affairs Commission filled the DesertView Performing Arts Center to the rafters with an eye-opening program called “In the Know on H2O.” Now it’s time to explore what each of us can do in our landscapes to make every drop of water count.
Come early on Monday, Nov. 3, to make sure you get a seat! The program begins at 1 p.m. and will wrap up around 2:30 p.m. You’ll hear from four speakers, all of whom are SaddleBrooke residents with firsthand experience on their topics:
1) Connie Kotke will provide Water Wise tips on planning our landscapes. Connie was a Master Gardener in Minnesota for eight years and completed her Arizona Master Gardener Certification. She is also trained in landscape design. Connie has been actively monitoring the status of our groundwater and the impacts of drought across the state.
2) Mike Odell is the chair of SaddleBrooke One’s Architecture and Landscape Committee. He will review Water Wise guidelines for selecting and planting our landscapes.
3) Roger VanHoozer will draw on his professional experience with RainBird to share Water Wise principles of designing, installing, and running our drip irrigation systems for maximum effectiveness.
4) Julie Long recently added an HOA-approved, affordable rainwater collection system in her backyard. She will take us step-by-step through the DIY installation process.
After the presentations, there will be time for audience questions. Plus, representatives from the University of Arizona Extension Southeast Pinal County Master Gardeners will be on hand to address your concerns and/or set up a home visit to identify plant or watering issues.
The recent Santa Cruz Basin Study (U.S. Bureau of Reclamation) identified SaddleBrooke as one of the top areas of concern when it comes to the future supply of groundwater. In addition, homeowners should anticipate rate increases from JW Water sometime in the next 9 to 12 months.
Let’s all make Water Wise choices. We look forward to seeing you on Nov. 3.