CNGA LooseLeaf April/May19

3 colorad o nga.org LooseLeaf  April/May 2019 MESSAGE FROMTHE BOARD As we begin the new growing season, it is a good time to reflect on one of our most important resources in the green industry: Water . Here in Colorado, we exist in a feast or famine situation, it seems, when it comes to water. Each year, we all watch the snowpack totals reported on the television weather reports through the winter, anxiously wondering if there might be signs of looming watering restrictions coming down the pike. Then, when spring comes to the high country, there is the precarious time when runoff begins... and we wonder if flooding will become an issue again. If weather patterns are in our favor, we’ll be able to start the summer with reservoirs filled, and life will be good. As the summer progresses, and we reach the long, hot days of July and August, we wish for cooling rains that seem too few and far between. This annual cycle can be a reminder of what our region naturally wants to be—higher elevation areas with forested foothills and mountains where precipitation tends to be more predictable, and wide-open grassy prairies in the lower elevations that have no problem thriving on around an inch of water (even less at times) per month. As the West has become a desirable place for people to live, it has become a place for people to plant trees, shrubs, perennials, turf grass, and annual plants (thankfully for our industry!). Our products and services tend to be the most visible targets when water becomes scarce, so being at the forefront of the discussion is vital for us as green industry professionals. We need to be sure that we are on the cutting edge in regards to irrigation practices and technology, appropriate landscape plant offerings, and appropriate layout and design with plants. As well, we need to be prepared to advocate for the ongoing care (watering) of our urban tree canopy, green infrastructure, and landscapes during periods of drought. The green industry can be an information resource to water providers and the general public, sharing how to responsibly use our sometimes scarce water supply. No matter if we are in a plentiful water year or a severe drought, it is important to continue to acknowledge that we live in an arid climate and our water is not infinite. We have great opportunities in the green industry to be a trusted, professional voice for this precious resource. By Dan Wise, CCNP CNGA Board President Trusted, Professional Advocates of Smart Water Use “The green industry can be an information resource to water providers and the general public, sharing how to responsibly use our sometimes scarce water supply.” Landscapes only use 3% of Colorado Water 25% fewer crimes occur in public housing with landscapes Here’s what 3% of our water does for us: There’s a big ROI on that 3% . That’s why we need to preserve landscapes while we conserve water . Every $ 1 invested in a home landscape yields a $1.35 return Children who spend time outdoors are better learners 7% higher rents are paid on commercial sites with attractive landscapes 45° cooler temps when cars are shaded by trees 55 sq ft of lawn provide enough oxygen for 1 person for 1 day 48 lbs of carbon dioxide are absorbed by 1 tree each year 3 % Colorado’s TOTAL WATER :

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