Chapman University converts 16,824 sq ft of turf to drought tolerant landscape

Chapman University (Chapman) and the Municipal Water District of Orange County (MWDOC) are celebrating the conversion of 16,824 sq. ft. of grass on the university’s main campus into a thriving, drought-tolerant landscape, which will save an estimated 700,000 gallons of water annually.

“[We’re] constantly looking for ways that as a campus we can reduce our water use,” said Jenny Kaufman, Chapman University’s Energy Conservation and Sustainability. “The money that we get back, we plan to funnel into future drought-tolerant landscape projects,” says Kaufman.

Chapman took advantage of MWDOC’s Turf Removal Rebate Program, which offers rebates of $3 per square foot, to create a sustainable landscape.

Chapman University’s outdoor living classroom plays a pivotal role in educating students about water use efficiency, incorporating methods like spray-to-drip irrigation, drought-tolerant and native plants, stormwater capture, and an interactive virtual tour that showcases the landscape features.

To learn more about MWDOC’s Turf Removal Rebate Program, visit mwdoc.com/turf.