low water use landscaping & design guide

San Diego Housing Commission

The San Diego Housing Commission and the University of California San Diego - Urban Studies 8l Planning Program, Bioregional Center for Sustainability Science, Planning & Design ("UCSD") have partnered to engage Disadvantaged Communities ("DAC") residents in the design of xeriscaped (i.e., low water use) landscapes and the effective use of alternative non-potable water supplies, while also expanding the understanding of the safety of the appropriate use of non-potable water sources.

The project is specifically focused on rainwater harvesting, storm water capture, and laundry greywater approaches and how these can be used as a complement to conventional irrigation. The overall goal of the implemented landscapes and water systems will be to enhance and improve diverse types of green spaces, support appropriate community garden opportunities, reduce storm water runoff and potable water consumption, and help alleviate urban heat island impacts in disadvantaged communities.