A popular rebate program officially opens for applications today.
Starting March 1, homeowners can apply online to be pre-approved for the Town’s residential Xeriscape program. The rest of the Water Conversation Rebate program opens May 1.
“The xeriscape portion of the water conservation rebate program opens early to help give homeowners sufficient time to finalize their landscape plans so when shovels can go in the ground, all the paperwork is taken care of,” said environment and sustainability specialist Jinny Toffelmire in a press release.
The rebate provides up to $3,000 towards the cost of xeriscaping a new yard or where grass is removed in an existing yard. The program can accommodate up to 10 projects, and applications are accepted on a first-come, first-served basis until the xeriscape funds are fully allocated. Last year, the program had a waiting list, so residents are encouraged to apply early.
Prior to any work being done, pre-approved applicants must review their landscape project with a Town staff member to confirm it meets eligibility requirements. The xeriscape rebate has several requirements, including minimum landscaped yard area, and specifications around percentage of drought-tolerant plants and turf, as well as types of top soil.
Xeriscaping includes removing a large area of turf, like a front yard lawn, and replacing it with native and/or drought-tolerant plants. It includes amending the soil depth and quality so that plants will thrive in dry conditions and adding a thick layer of mulch so that moisture doesn’t evaporate. The goal of a xeriscape landscape is to have a yard space that is self-sufficient, low-maintenance and beautiful.
Okotoks is a water-wise community – this program supports residents who make efforts to reduce water consumption through xeriscaping, which creates a landscape that can be maintained with little or no supplementary watering once plants are established.
The online application and full requirements can be found at okotoks.ca/Water-Rebate.
