From Too Much Lawn to a Waterwise Landscape: Richard’s Story

When Richard looked out at his yard, one thing was clear. There was simply more grass than he needed.

“I had too much lawn,” he said. “My yard was big, and I didn’t need that much grass.”

After hearing about Resource Central through a city email, Richard realized the Lawn Replacement program aligned perfectly with what he already had in mind. So, he decided to move forward with removing about 300 square feet of grass to create a space that felt more manageable and better suited to his needs.

The lawn removal itself was one of the easiest parts of the process. “They did a really nice job removing the sod,” he shared. “The crew was really nice and professional, and they made it easy.” The impact was immediate. With less lawn to maintain, Richard could already enjoy a simpler routine. “Now I have that much less to mow, and the dogs love it too.”

As the project continued, Richard took on the work of shaping the rest of his space. While it required time and effort, it also gave him the opportunity to bring his vision to life. “The rest of the project involved hauling in rock and getting all the materials,” he said. “It was definitely a lot of work, but it all came together in the end.”

That effort paid off. “It came out a lot better than I thought it would,” Richard said. He designed the space himself, selecting low-water plants that support a more sustainable and enjoyable landscape. The transformation has made an impression, especially on guests visiting his home, who are often surprised by how the space has changed.

Reflecting on the experience, Richard encourages others to plan ahead. “Make sure you really understand the costs before you start,” he said. “It’s a great investment, and planning for it from the beginning makes a big difference.”

Richard’s story is a great example of how reducing lawn can lead to a yard that is easier to maintain, more functional, and aligned with a waterwise future.