Environmental Programs is committed to helping community members start the new year off right by making sure more Escondido residents know about the free water‑conservation tools and resources available to them!

Activities & Events: 

• WaterSmart Landscape Class – The City hosts several landscaping classes throughout the year, offering in‑depth instruction for gardeners and homeowners of all experience levels who want to make their landscapes more water-efficient. Our next class is Saturday, February 28, from 10 to 11:30 a.m. For more details, visit: www.greenmediacreations.com/mwd
• 2026 Earth Day Recycling Art Contest: What Earth Day Means to ME! – Show us what it means to YOU by creating a 3-D art piece made of trash, recyclables, and/or repurposed materials. Nine finalists will receive prizes, and selected artwork will be displayed at the Escondido Arts Partnership Municipal Gallery in April. The contest is open to all K-8 students, and the submission deadline is Friday, February 27. For more information, click here to download the flyer.
• WaterSmart Landscape Contest – Proud of your water-efficient yard? Enter our free annual contest to win prizes and be recognized for your work in water conservation and neighborhood beautification. Judging criteria include overall attractiveness, efficient irrigation methods, design, and appropriate plant selection and maintenance. The deadline to apply is Friday, May 8. For more details, visit: landscapecontest.com

Resources:

• Free Mulch – Mulch offers numerous benefits, including reducing water loss, protecting soil from erosion, and enriching soil as it decomposes. Escondido residents can pick up free mulch from Ramona Disposal Services. Click here to learn more.
• Nifty 50 & Happy 100 Plant Lists – Not sure what to plant in your water-conscious garden? The San Diego County Water Authority’s Nifty 50 and Happy 100 Plant Lists are a great place get started. Learn more at: watersmartsd.org

Current Rebates:

• Turf Replacement Rebate – Planning a landscape transformation that involves removing turf grass? Be sure to explore this rebate before you begin. Residents may receive up to $3 per square foot of grass removed and replaced with water‑wise landscaping. Learn more at: SoCalWaterSmart - Turf Replacement Program
• WaterSmart Rebates – Beyond turf replacement, City residents can also take advantage of rebates for smart irrigation controllers, soil moisture sensor systems, rain barrels, and other indoor and outdoor water‑saving devices and appliances. Details are available at: SoCalWaterSmart - Available Rebates

For additional resources and more information, please visit: Environmental Programs