Across the Western United States, the movement to replace non-functional turf (NFT) is rapidly gaining momentum as communities strive to combat persistent drought conditions and promote water conservation and efficiency practices. Although the definition of non-functional turf varies across communities, it is commonly referenced as grass that serves no recreational or environmental purpose, such as in medians, along sidewalks, or in front of businesses. This type of turfgrass is increasingly being targeted for removal and replacement due to its high water demands and limited utility.
The transformation from NFT to water-efficient landscaping offers substantial benefits, including significant reductions in water usage, decreased maintenance costs, and improved climate resilience. In regions like Colorado River Basin and the Western U.S. broadly, where water is a precious resource, these turf replacement programs and projects have saved millions of gallons of water, bolstering long-term water supply reliability and creating more sustainable urban landscapes.
WaterNow is committed to assisting water utilities and municipalities in every step of the turf transformation process—whether it’s conducting initial research, engaging stakeholders, mapping non-functional turf, or exploring funding and financing options. This platform is a central hub for all things NFT, providing a wealth of resources such as:
- Success stories,
- Customizable tools, and
- Financing pathways.
These materials are designed to help you transition to more sustainable landscaping practices that benefit both the environment and your community. Explore the Case Studies and Resource Library below to access NFT implementation resources.
