The Watershed Council and LADWP and our partners and stake holders are actively promoting the use of native and drought tolerant landscaping to reduce the use of potable water supplies for outdoor irrigation. In addition, we've been working to increase the understanding and application of Low Impact Development techniques on a parcel by parcel basis to better manage stormwater where it originates.It has long been recognized in the field of watershed management that wide-spread training for landscape design and maintenance professionals is needed to ensure short and long-term water conservation and stormwater management goals are effectively met.

Additionally, incorporating drought tolerant native plants into our urban landscapes has been increasingly emphasized in general planning efforts in our region. The Los Angeles River Master Plan, the San Gabriel River Master Plan and many of the region’s integrated watershed management guidelines require the use of native plants and low impact development techniques, in addition to other sustainable design practices. Along with the majority of park and open space projects funded by Propositions 50 and 84, these plans underpin tens of millions of dollars of funding for projects in the years to come.