2020 Community Water Wise awards program
Does your landscape have what it takes to win? Enter today to find out.
By LYNN BARBER
Florida-Friendly Landscaping Agent
The 2020 Community Water Wise Awards, sponsored by Tampa Bay Water, were created to recognize individuals and businesses committed to conserving our water resources and protecting the environment by using Florida-Friendly Landscaping™ (FFL) principles. There are nine FFL principles, which include right plant right place, water efficiently, fertilize appropriately, mulch, attract wildlife, manage yard pests responsibly, recycle, reduce stormwater runoff and protect the waterfront. Many of these principles are used as part of the landscape evaluation process for this award program.
Michael and Jacqueline 2019 winners.
The retention of existing trees and vegetation is evaluated, as are landscape design, utilization of mulch and plant selection. Stormwater runoff prevention and efficient irrigation techniques are reviewed, including the use of rain gardens, rainwater harvesting and functioning rain sensor devices. Winning landscapes balance attractive designs with plants, landscape elements and water efficient irrigation techniques that have a positive impact on our environment.
You can view photographs of past winners at awards.tampabaywaterwise.org/ and watch a short video that includes several of them. The deadline for entries is June 30, so you can complete an application now, submit it and get a head start on the 2020 contest. It takes approximately ten minutes to complete the application and submit online at the link mentioned above. Attaching a photo or two is helpful. Onsite landscape evaluations will be scheduled and conducted in June, July and August with homeowners and business owners present. Winning entries will receive a handmade mosaic stepping stone for homeowners or a plaque option for businesses. If you have questions regarding the Community Water Wise Award program, call Lynn Barber at 813-744-5519 x 54105.
This is a great time to get outside, go for a walk, get the bicycle out of the garage and enjoy nature.
For more information about the nine principles of the Florida-Friendly Landscaping™ program or for assistance with gardening-related questions, call the UF/IFAS Extension Hillsborough County at 813-744-5519 or visit http://sfyl.ifas.ufl.edu/hillsborough/upcoming-events for upcoming workshops.
