Signs promote dormant lawns, water conservation

“We support brown grass” – Western Antique Aeroplane and Automobile Museum.

“Another brown lawn to help farms and fish.” – Handmade sign at a home on 5th Street the Heights.

“Roses are red, mulch is a sponge, use it to save water, come on take the plunge.” – Good News Gardening

During this low water year, every drop counts. The Hood River Watershed Group, Hood River Soil and Water Conservation District, and partners are providing free signs (donations welcome) to homeowners who voluntarily let their lawns go dormant this year. Dormant grass is not dead; it will green up again with the fall rains.

This is not the first time local agencies have distributed “brown lawn” signs. In 2001, the idea debuted with a bright yellow version during that year’s serious drought.

To kick off this signage campaign, the Hood River Watershed Group will be at the July 9 Hood River Farmers Market with freshly printed signs and more information on water conservation. Signs will also be available after July 9 at the SWCD Office, Columbia Riverkeeper, Farmers Irrigation District, East Fork Irrigation District, Middle Fork Irrigation District, and subsequent Farmers Markets. Sign sponsors are Columbia Gorge Fruit Growers, Envirogorge, and Columbia Riverkeeper.

To learn more about dormant lawns or, if your lawn must stay green, how to water efficiently, check out the website www.hoodriverswcd.org or contact Megan Saunders at megan@hoodriverswcd.org or 541-386-6063.