Doing Our Part

Nonfunctional Grass Removal Mandate: Law AB356

With ongoing drought conditions affecting water levels at Lake Mead, a newly implemented law, AB 356, is aimed at increasing efficient water use throughout Southern Nevada. 

The turf removal law prohibits the use of water delivered by SNWA’s member agencies to irrigate decorative grass in streetscapes, medians, parking lots, and other areas where it is used for aesthetics and not recreational purposes by the end of 2026. 

To comply with AB356, this summer we'll begin to remove selected sections of non-recreational turf at four parks and replace it with drought-tolerant, native plants, trees or other landscape materials and amenities.

At 12 parks, we are converting the existing Fescue grass to a drought-tolerant grass, such as Hybrid Bermuda. Residents might notice some additional watering taking place to help establish the new seed.

We'll continue the project for our remaining parks through 2026. When completed, we estimate this project will save our community 150 million gallons of water per year.

For more information on how your nearby park will be impacted, see our Facility, Pool, Park & Trail Hours and Closures page. 

Current Turf Reduction Projects

Hayley Hendricks Park

 
River Mountain Park

Watering 

Many of our parks are on a conservation watering schedule designed to help maximize water efficiency. This schedule is created by a centrally-controlled irrigation system that:

• Monitors daily weather station data
• Utilizes computerized controllers
• Applies the optimum amount of water needed to keep plants healthy

Additional Water Conservation Measures

The City of Henderson Parks and Recreation Department also has additional water conservation measures and programs in place. They include:

• Non-recreational turf reduction program
• Irrigation system preventative maintenance plan
• New development landscaping requirements
• Water usage reporting and evaluation

Contact

If you would like to learn more about our water conservation efforts or if you have any water-related concerns about our parks, call 702-267-4027. A copy of our Drought Response Plan is also available upon request.