Queen Creek Council explores water conservation grants and HOA turf conversion programs

During the recent Queen Creek Town Council meeting on March 5, 2025, significant discussions centered around water conservation initiatives aimed at reducing water usage in the community, particularly among homeowners' associations (HOAs). The council is actively working on a new HOA webpage that will provide resources and educational videos to help residents utilize the town's water conservation programs more effectively.

One of the key proposals discussed was an incentive program focused on turf conversion and water-efficient technologies. The town plans to apply for a Water Infrastructure Finance Authority (WIFA) conservation grant, seeking $500,000 for nonresidential turf conversion, $100,000 for residential turf conversion, and $68,000 for water-efficient technologies. This initiative aims to encourage HOAs to reduce their water consumption, particularly in landscapes with high grass density, which have been shown to use significantly more water.

The council highlighted that HOAs with over 30% grass in their landscapes consume an average of 400,000 gallons more water per month compared to those with less grass. This translates to approximately 15 acre-feet of water annually per HOA, underscoring the potential for substantial savings through targeted conservation efforts.

In addition to the grant application, the council is considering potential changes to local codes and ordinances to promote lower turf percentages in landscaping. This approach aims to balance aesthetic needs with practical water conservation goals.

Council members expressed the importance of engaging residents in these conservation efforts, suggesting that educating homeowners about the costs associated with water usage could motivate them to advocate for more sustainable practices within their HOAs. The discussion also touched on the need for effective communication and outreach strategies to ensure that residents are informed about the resources available to them.

As the town moves forward with these initiatives, the focus remains on fostering a community-wide commitment to water conservation, which is increasingly vital in the face of ongoing water resource challenges. The council's efforts reflect a proactive approach to managing water use and ensuring the sustainability of Queen Creek's natural resources for future generations.