Waterwise Community Interview: Mitch from Longmont

Resource Central talks with Mitch from Longmont about his experience with the Lawn Replacement and Garden In A Box Programs.

What inspired you to make a waterwise landscape transformation?

I wanted to remove my unused front lawn and turn it into something I would enjoy that would use less water. I was looking up drought tolerant lawns/gardens, and found Resource Central’s Lawn Replacement Program.

Coneflowers, Anise Hyssop, and Moonbeam Coreopsis in Mitch’s Front Yard Garden

Did you consider yourself an avid gardener before taking on this project?

I considered myself a novice gardener, but was eager to learn and get more experience

What was (or still is) the most challenging aspect of your project?

Weed maintenance is the most challenging aspect, as is for any garden project. Other than that, my garden is very self sufficient. I don’t have to do much if I don’t want to.

When looking at your new landscape, is there anything that jumps out as especially surprising or rewarding?

I was amazed at how quickly all my plants established. I planted in May, and now it’s a completely different yard. All the plants are much bigger, healthy, and blooming. It is also incredible that so much wildlife is now in my yard. The bees and butterflies arrived almost immediately, and the resident hummingbirds arrived a month later.

Mitch’s lawn was removed in May 2025, with his garden being planted shortly afterward. Photos show Mitch’s garden in August 2025.

What advice would you give to someone who is beginning the process of waterwise landscaping?

I would tell them to take on the project, even if it’s their first time gardening! It can be small or large, but the most important thing is to have fun with it!

What have you heard from your neighbors about this project?

My neighbors absolutely love it. They tell me that even when I’m at work, many people stop to look at it!

Is there anything else you’d like to share about your experience with Resource Central?

I thought the Lawn Replacement and Garden In A Box Programs were amazing! It was easy to apply, pick up the plants, and complete my project. I would highly recommend (and already have).

At Resource Central, we believe that we can build a resilient and waterwise Colorado together through local action on a massive scale.

The individuals featured in this blog series are only snapshots of the that’s being done by so many Coloradans to work toward that goal. So, whether you’re just starting to improve your water efficiency, are a seasoned low-water gardener, or are reading this blog and learning about waterwise gardening for the first time, thank you for joining us in creating a more waterwise future.