We’re in a Drought: Simple Ways to Save Water and Have a Beautiful Yard
We love every bit of Colorado, right down to its semi-arid climate. With stricter watering restrictions becoming more common, it’s clear that water is a limited resource we all need to use wisely.
That’s where Resource Central comes in. As an award-winning conservation nonprofit, we offer easy, proven programs to help create yards that use less water and stay healthy under local restrictions.
What does “waterwise” mean? It’s landscaping designed for Colorado that uses less water, reduces waste, and makes it easier to follow watering rules without sacrificing your yard.
What to find on this page:
Know Your Watering Restrictions & Guidelines
With Colorado’s climate, it’s common for water utilities to limit the days, times, and how long you can water your landscape. Sometimes this is purely to conserve water and sometimes it’s to reduce daily demands on water systems. With the historically low snowpack in winter 2025-2026, many providers are implementing stricter drought-related watering restrictions. Use the search tool below to find the restrictions and guidelines for your water utility.
Our Programs Make it Easy to Use Less Water in Your Yard
Small changes add up to big water savings over time. Resource Central’s easy conservation programs support your waterwise goals.
Garden in a Box
Plant a new perspective with professionally designed, pollinator-friendly, DIY waterwise Garden In A Box kits at a discount.
Lawn Replacement
Transition to waterwise yard with Lawn Replacement, using discounted lawn removal or complimentary waterwise garden kits.
Slow the Flow
Optimize water use with free Slow the Flow sprinkler evaluations that improve efficiency, may include smart technology upgrades.
Waterwise Yard Seminars
Learn low-water gardening basics with free, virtual Waterwise Yard Seminars taught by landscape professionals.
Start Your Waterwise Yard Journey
There’s no one right way to create a waterwise yard. Most people take a few steps over time — and you can start wherever makes the most sense for you.
- If you want water savings and to attract pollinators, plant a low-water Garden In A Box
- If you want to improve your irrigation system’s efficiency, request a Slow the Flow sprinkler evaluation
- If you’re ready to remove some of your thirsty grass, apply for Lawn Replacement
- If you want to learn from landscaping professionals, register for free Waterwise Yard Seminars
More Ways to Save Water in Your Yard
Looking for more options to reduce outdoor water use in Colorado? Explore practical water-saving tips, seasonal yard care advice, and simple landscaping ideas that can help you use less water year after year.
From smarter sprinkler habits to low-water plants and waterwise garden inspiration, these resources can help you make confident choices for a healthier, more resilient yard.
5 Steps to Tailor a Garden In A Box Kit to Your Space
Integrating your Garden In A Box kit into your outdoor space is easier than you might think. While the Garden Info Sheet included with each kit provides sample Plant by...Read More
Preparing to Plant Your Garden
We’re here to help get your garden area ready for planting your new Garden In A Box. Check out our tips below for insights on soil amendments, mulching, weeding, and...Read More
Dormant vs. Dead Grass: How to Tell in Colorado
As watering restrictions begin across Colorado, many homeowners are noticing brown lawns and wondering if they need to water or if their grass is dead? The good news is that...Read More
Get Waterwise Tips and Program Updates
Want help deciding where to start? Sign up for Resource Central’s newsletters to get seasonal watering tips, program reminders, and helpful ideas for your waterwise landscape.
By submitting this form, you are consenting to receive marketing emails from: Resource Central, 6400 Arapahoe Rd, Boulder, CO, 80303, http://www.resourcecentral.org. You can revoke your consent to receive emails at any time by using the SafeUnsubscribe® link, found at the bottom of every email. Emails are serviced by Constant Contact
Visit the Inspiration Hub
Find resources to get started, and before and after landscaping projects submitted by Coloradans at WaterwiseYards.org!
Why Choose Resource Central?
Creating a waterwise landscape can feel like a big project, but you don’t have to figure it out alone.
Resource Central is a local nonprofit that helps Colorado residents save water, reduce waste, and make practical changes at home. Our water conservation programs are designed to be easy, helpful, and built for real yards in Colorado.
- We make it easier to get started — You don’t need to be an expert to start saving water
- Our programs are made for Colorado — Created for water conservation in our semi-arid climate
- You can start small or go big — Small changes over time can add up to big water savings
- We’re here to help — Resource Central helps you become waterwise by partnering with your water provider, municipality, or other local partner that funds or supports the program, so it’s low-cost or free to you