Water is the new oil. Once, water, even in the Wood River Valley, a high-alpine climate, was taken for granted. But as the valley grows in population and more homes and subdivisions are built, the natural water flow in the area is put to the test.
The Sawtooth Botanical Garden will host a Water Conservation Fair on Saturday, May 31, in association with Wood River Land Trust, Environmental Resource Center, Hailey Environmental Leadership Program and Idaho Rivers United.
At the Water Conservation Fair, the public can meet with local companies such as Western Supply, Webb Nursery, All Seasons Landscaping, Native Landscapes, Conservation Seeding and Restoration, Ranchers Supply and partnering non-profits in the area.
"This is the place to become educated on water-wise landscaping and irrigation practices from the professionals," Sawtooth Botanical Garden Executive Director Jennifer Colson said. "Many people have started their irrigation and fertilizer regimens. Now is the time to refine your water usage to save water quantity and improve water quality throughout the entire season."
The Water Conservation Fair will coincide with the annual Spring Native Plant Sale featuring drought-tolerant and native plant species.
The sale is open to members only from 9-10 a.m. Membership costs $35. After 10 a.m. the public is invited. Plant experts will be available to answer questions regarding native and drought-tolerant plants. The Sawtooth Botanical Garden also has a Xeriscape (drought-tolerant gardening) Home Demonstration Garden located just west of the Caretaker's Cottage that shows how homeowners can incorporate an environmentally responsible small garden into their landscape.
The Wood River Land Trust created its Trout Friendly Lawn program in 2007 to inform residents on how to improve yard care practices to protect fish, conserve water and keep drinking water and streams clean.
For more than a decade, the Environmental Resource Center has been the lead entity in the valley regarding environmental issues.
The Hailey Environmental Leadership Program is working to reduce Hailey's carbon footprint, water policy and general environmental impact.