Non=Functional Turf Removal Begins at Mesa City Parks and Basins

Non=Functional Turf Removal Begins at Mesa City Parks and Basins

Mesa begins removing non-functional turf at more than 50 parks and basins to reduce Mesa's water usage. Earlier this year, Arizona's Water Infrastructure Finance Authority (WIFA) awarded Mesa a $1.06 million Water Conservation Grant Fund Award to remove 6-foot strips of non-functional turf adjacent to infrastructure, such as block walls, and replace it with landscape rock and cement curbing at each of the selected locations. The project, which requires a city total project match of 25%, will support Mesa's Climate Action Plan goals and will save over five million gallons of water annually, reducing irrigation and mowing needs at selected parks.

"We're grateful to Arizona's Water Infrastructure Finance Authority for awarding Mesa this grant and supporting our efforts to create sustainable public spaces," said Mesa Mayor John Giles. "Their investment in this project highlights the importance of state and local collaboration in tackling regional water challenges. Together, were making strides toward water resilience in Mesa and across Arizona."

This non-functional turf removal project will take place in Mesa parks, primarily served by Colorado River water, which is the focus of WIFA's grant program. Removing non-functional turf reduces the use of existing water supplies, promotes water security and helps reduce energy consumption associated with water pumping and treatment.

"We are excited to have started work on reducing non-functional turf in our park system. When finished in the Winter of 2025, we will have removed over five acres of grass, thereby saving precious water resources, at over 50 parks in limited areas that are not used for recreation and play," said Mesa Parks and Recreation Director Andrea Moore.

The removal of non-functional turf at Mesa parks strengthens the City's commitment to water stewardship and reducing water usage. Additionally, the project aligns with Mesa City Council's strategic priorities of Sustainable Environment and Neighborhoods and Placemaking.