Green grassy lawns may be the traditional approach in homes across Colorado, but they’re also incredibly thirsty. In fact, more than half of residential water use in the Front Range goes to outdoor water and irrigating lawns. Add in heavy pesticide use, fertilizer runoff, and gas-powered mowing, and it’s easy to see why many homeowners are turning to the lawn removal benefits of low-water landscaping.
That’s why Resource Central launched the Lawn Replacement program to help Coloradans transform their landscapes into something more water-wise, sustainable, and affordable. The program has helped conserve 36 million gallons of water, and we’re just getting started.
Why Replace Your Lawn? Lawn Removal Benefits
Traditional cool-weather turf, like Kentucky Bluegrass, may look green, but it’s far from sustainable.
The benefits of transforming your yard include:
- Saving 50% more water by switching to a waterwise landscape.
- Creating a more attractive and inviting outdoor space, adding curb appeal.
- Supporting a healthier, more resilient environment by reducing the use of outdoor chemicals and gas mowers.
- Potentially lower your monthly water costs.
- Welcoming pollinators and an array of local wildlife in your yard.
Starting small, by replacing even a portion of your lawn with waterwise plants, can significantly reduce your water use, lower maintenance, and bring your landscape to life.
How the Lawn Replacement Program Works
Since launching in 2020, our Lawn Replacement program partners with local water providers and municipalities to help Colorado residents remove turf at an affordable rate.
Here’s how it works:
- Apply: Submit your project application and commit to replacing at least 200 square feet of lawn with a landscape that’s 50% low-water plants.
- Approve: Once your project is approved, our team removes the turf for you.
- Achieve: You get access to expert resources, discounts (up to $750 in 2025), and guidance to create a waterwise yard you’ll love.
Whether you plant groundcovers like clover and native grasses or build a pollinator-friendly path with Garden In A Box low-water perennials, your transformed yard can become part of Colorado’s waterwise future.
Ready to Get Started?
If you’re ready to reduce your water use and create a healthier, more vibrant yard, now’s the time to act. Thanks to local water partners and municipalities, you could save up to $750 on your project! Applications for the Lawn Replacement Program are open through September — and spaces fill quickly.
Learn more and apply today at ResourceCentral.org/lawn. Together, we can make waterwise landscapes the new norm in Colorado.
References: Water Conservation In and Around the Home – 9.952, The ecological benefits of shrinking your lawn
